Throughout history, aloe vera has been utilized for its healing properties. A 2010 article published in Aloe Vera Juice Online highlighted the ancient Egyptian's use of aloe vera 5,000 years ago to treat wounded soldiers. These ancients recorded evidence of its healing powers on papyrus, naming aloe vera the plant of immortality. This perennial evergreen, belonging to the lily family, has origins in North Africa, the Arabian Peninsula and Cape Verde.
Barbadensis Miller
Of all the many different aloe vera plants in existence, only the Barbadensis miller has therapeutic value. Cultivated in arid climates and harvested for commercial use, the gel inside the leaf is added to beverages, desserts and a wide range of products, such as moisturizers, shaving creams, cosmetics, toothpastes, sunscreens, acne treatment and anti-aging creams.
Properties
Rich in B12 vitamins, essential fatty acids, vitamin C and minerals, aloe vera contains anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral properties. The extensive healing and medicinal actions of aloe gel provide a valuable home treatment remedy for a range of skin conditions, including fungal infections, wounds and acne. Aloe vera juice treats digestive disorders, tones, purifies, fights infections and boosts the immune system.
Raw or Commercial
Many commercial brands of aloe vera gel contain thickeners and preservatives, having only a small amount of aloe, which diminishes the healing potential. Choose a product listed as 100 percent stabilized to get the full healing benefits. Alternatively, grow your own aloe vera plant at home. They're easy to maintain and come in handy when treating minor cuts, burns or fungal infections. Slice a leaf lengthways and scrape away the gel inside, applying it to the affected area. Use right away, as the gel oxidizes once exposed to air, losing its potency. The cut leaf will heal itself rapidly.
Burns
Aloe vera gel treats a variety of first- and second-degree burns by rapidly penetrating deep layers of tissue to cool and soothe the affected area, bringing instant relief. The properties contained in aloe vera gel work to disinfect and prevent bacterial infections in wounds, supplying much-needed essential acids and nutrients to rejuvenate and quickly heal the damaged tissue.
Eczema
Eczema, a condition linked to dysfunction of the immune system and hypersensitive skin, is common in children, and although most grow out of it, a small percentage will carry eczema into adulthood. Detergents, extreme weather, sweating in excess or coarse textures rubbing against the skin can trigger flares, which result in inflamed, itchy, dry and irritated skin. Aloe vera gel applied directly to the skin will protect it from infection and ease inflammation. It penetrates deep layers of epithelial tissues, hydrating and moisturizing skin while creating a protective barrier. Aloe vera contains polysaccharides that stimulate fibroblasts, which are cells responsible for the production of connective tissue and the healing of wounds. Collagen and elastin then form to improve the texture and add resilience to skin. Apply the gel directly to the affected areas and drink aloe vera juice to boost the healing activity.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis, a chronic skin condition caused by the rapid reproduction of skin cells resulting in an excessive buildup of cells, causes red, itchy, silvery scaled patches on the surface of the skin. Plaque psoriasis appears on areas such as the scalp, elbows, trunk, palms, soles and knees, and it occurs in cycles of acute flares and remission. A severe bout of psoriasis can leave skin cracked, broken and bleeding and vulnerable to infection. A 2009 study carried out by Dr. Choonhakarn of the International Congress of Dermatology found aloe vera gel more effective than topical steroids in treating psoriasis. To treat, combine apply aloe vera gel to the skin and consume aloe vera juice to heighten healing.
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