Aloe vera vs Aloe macroclada: two plants, two callings
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By Hana Manai, founder of VĀHANA
In short: aloe vera and Aloe macroclada belong to the same genus, but they are two distinct species. One is grown everywhere and well studied, mostly for the skin; the other grows only in Madagascar and has only been the subject of early research, focused on stem cells.
Two species, two origins
Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) is grown worldwide in warm regions. Aloe macroclada, called vahona, is native to Madagascar, where tradition has used it for generations as a plant of rejuvenation and longevity.
Different uses
Aloe vera is best known for its gel, applied to the skin: that's its best-studied use, notably for soothing minor burns. Vahona, by contrast, is traditionally taken by mouth, as pellets made from the plant's juice and ashes.
What research has observed
Aloe vera: hundreds of studies, mostly on skin and wound healing, and a few small trials on blood sugar with still mixed results.
Aloe macroclada: one human pilot study (Drapeau et al., 2015), run with four volunteers using the traditional preparation. It observed a temporary rise in circulating stem cells, significant from two hours and reaching up to +53% at three hours for some of them. It's promising, but preliminary. Read our analysis of the study.
At a glance
| Aloe vera | Aloe macroclada (vahona) | |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Grown worldwide | Native to Madagascar |
| Main use | Gel applied to the skin | Preparation taken by mouth |
| Research level | Extensive | Preliminary (one human pilot study) |
| Area studied | Skin, wound healing | Circulating stem cells |
A shared precaution
The yellow latex of aloe vera, just under the leaf skin, contains aloin, a strong laxative; long-term oral use is not recommended. For any aloe taken by mouth, choose a quality-controlled product and consult a healthcare professional if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication.
Frequently asked questions
Can one replace the other?
No: they are two different species, and results obtained with one don't apply to the other.
Which is better studied?
Aloe vera, by far. Vahona remains a recent line of research.
Sources
- Drapeau C. et al. Aloe macroclada from Madagascar Triggers Transient Bone Marrow Stem Cell Mobilization. Journal of Stem Cell Research & Therapy, 2015, 5:287.
- Maenthaisong R. et al. The efficacy of aloe vera used for burn wound healing: a systematic review. Burns, 2007.
Educational content. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration or Health Canada. This content does not replace advice from a healthcare professional.
