Aloe is a perennial plant that has been used medicinally for at least 6,000 years. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, aloe originated in Egypt but is now cultivated all over the world.
Primary Use
By far, the most common use for aloe is as a treatment for burns. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, there is evidence that aloe helps to relieve the pain and supports healing of minor skin burns or sunburns. But the site warns not to apply aloe to open wounds.
The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that aloe juice is a powerful laxative. The drawback is that it may cause painful cramping. The site recommends using other, gentler laxatives instead.
Other Medicinal Uses
MedlinePlus states that aloe may also be used to treat genital herpes, psoriasis, canker sores, type 2 diabetes, dry skin, skin ulcers, ulcerative colitis, mucositis, pressure ulcers and radiation dermatitis. So far, there is not enough clinical evidence to support aloe as a treatment for these conditions.
Forms
Aloe can be purchased as a juice, a gel or a "latex" made from the inside of the aloe plant. It is often added to ointments or lotions too.
Helpful Tip
Many people keep an aloe plant growing in their kitchen. If any sort of burn occurs, they can just break off a section of the plant and apply the juice to the burn.
Warning
Aloe seems to be best used as a topical treatment for skin conditions. Taking it internally could cause severe cramping.
Severe burns should be treated by a health care professional. Don't rely on aloe alone for severe burns.
Any new substance can cause an allergic reaction. Be aware of any rashes, hives or difficulty breathing when using aloe. If any of these symptoms occur, stop using it and contact your health care provider.
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