Aloe vera juice contains leaf pulp that is rich in natural nutrients and fiber. This well-known herbal remedy for the skin also has many benefits for internal healing, cleansing and repair when ingested as a nutritional drink. However, it can cause adverse side effects and reactions and should only be taken as directed. Do not consume aloe vera that is not made for internal, use and consult your doctor before self-medicating for any reason.

Digestive Benefits

Aloe vera contains nutrient compounds that help to heal and soothe the skin when used externally. It may also have similar benefits on the lining of the digestive tract, when ingested as a drink. A review published in the "British Journal of General Practice" notes that aloe vera decreases irritation and enhances healing and repair of ulcers in the stomach and intestines. Aloe vera juice also helps to decrease inflammation in irritable bowel syndrome, colitis and other inflammatory disorders of the gut. Additionally, aloe vera can increase healthy bacteria in the intestines that aid digestion.

Immune Benefits

Research published in the "Journal of Environmental Science and Health" notes that aloe vera contains anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties that aid the immune system to cleanse the body of toxins and invading pathogens. Additionally, aloe vera helps to balance the immune system to reduce the effects of seasonal allergies, rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory immune disorders.

Heart Benefits

Taking aloe vera internally may also help improve blood circulation in the body. A clinical study published in the medical journal "Angiology" reported that aloe vera may help decrease total fat levels in patients with high cholesterol. This helps to reduce fatty deposits and blood clots in the arteries of the heart and body. The research noted that patients with diabetes showed the highest improvement in cholesterol level; however, the exact mechanism of these benefits are not yet determined.

Diarrhea Risk

The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center warns that drinking aloe vera can cause adverse effects such as diarrhea. This occurs because aloe juice and aloe latex contain a substance called anthraquinone, which is a laxative. Severe diarrhea can cause pain, cramping and dehydration. Consult your doctor or nutritionist before ingesting this herb and do not consume aloe vera that is not produced for internal use.

Drug interactions

Like other herbal supplements, taking aloe vera internally can cause adverse interactions with prescription and over-the-counter medications. Aloe vera may inhibit or increase the effects of some drugs, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. For example, it may increase the blood-sugar-lowering effects of some diabetes medications and may cause potassium loss if taken with water pills or diuretics for heart conditions.