Aloe vera is a plant native to Africa, specifically Egypt, that has been used therapeutically and medicinally for 6,000 years, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM). Aloe leaves contain a clear gel that can be used topically or consumed orally in a juice or capsule form. Research shows that aloe vera offers many health benefits.
Constipation Relief
Aloe vera contains natural therapeutic properties that prevent constipation and promote regularity. Research supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) suggests that the aloe leaves' inner lining acts as a natural laxative. Scientific evidence shows that aloe contains a naturally occurring component, called aloin, that has strong laxative properties. The NIH studies state that the dried latex found within the leaves contains compounds called anthroquinone glycosides, which support regularity. The recommended dose that is most effective for constipation is 0.04 to 0.17 g of dried aloe juice consumed orally. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) warns, however, that aloe as a constipation remedy may cause cramps that are sometimes severe. Be sure to consult your physician before attempting naturopathic remedies at home.
Wound Healing
The leaves of the aloe plant release a transparent gel that has been used for centuries to treat wounds. Studies highlighted by the NIH report that aloe vera promotes wound healing when used topically on the skin. Promising research shows that topical aloe vera contains immunomodulatory properties that significantly increase healing of wounds and prevent inflammation of the skin. Evidence from the NIH also reveals that aloe can treat recurrent ulcers of the mouth by decreasing pain and increasing recovery time when taken orally in a gel form.
Burns
Aloe vera also promotes healing of mild to moderate burns, according to the NCCAM. Aloe vera gel soothes the skin and is found in hundreds of therapeutic skin lotions and products. The UMMC says aloe contains active compounds that significantly decrease the pain and inflammation associated with burns. Researchers concluded that burn patients who were treated with aloe healed nine days sooner than individuals who were not treated with the herb. Studies warn that aloe is appropriate for treating and repairing minor burns, but it should not be applied to an open cut or wound.
Herpes and Skin Conditions
Preliminary studies from the UMMC suggest that topical aloe vera may improve symptoms commonly associated with genital herpes. According to studies from the NIH, aloe vera in a hydrophilic cream form was most effective in treating genital herpes in men when compared to the aloe gel and placebo. Aloe also can be used as a natural moisturizer because it effectively reduces dryness of skin without side effects. Research from the NIH support aloe's skin benefits because it is effective in treating psoriasis vulgaris, a disease that causes pain, itching and cracking of the skin. Early studies also support aloe's effectiveness in treating seborrheic dermatitis, which is dandruff caused by dryness of the scalp.
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