Aloe Vera Gel for Skin

Aloe vera gel is a centuries-old herbal remedy that has been revered as a natural skin care product for both cosmetic and medicinal purposes. It is obtained from the aloe vera herb, a perennial plant that belongs to the lily family (family Lilaceae). Today, aloe vera gel remains one of the most widely-used herbal remedies for the skin.

History

Jeffrey Bland, Ph.D., of the Linus Pauling Institute of Science & Medicine, notes that historical records dating back to the ancient Phoenicians document the medicinal use of aloe vera. In a research report published in "Preventive Magazine," he reports that aloe vera gel has long been used to treat dermatological conditions such as burns and wounds. The book "Herbs & Natural Supplements," notes that legend has it that Alexander the Great captured Madagascar, an island in the Indian Ocean, to secure an ample source of this herb to treat his soldiers' wounds. Today, aloe vera is still used to treat skin conditions and is a common ingredient in cosmetic products.

Properties

The Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center cites animal studies showing that aloe vera gel has anti-inflammatory activity, which is attributed to compounds that hinder the molecules that play a role in inflammation. It is also believed to inhibit the formation of a compound called thromboxane, which is detrimental to the healing of burns. Laboratory studies show that it has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which are beneficial in fighting or preventing infection.

Benefits

Aloe vera gel is an age-old topical remedy for a range of skin conditions. According to the Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, clinical research evidence supports the use of aloe vera gel as a topical remedy for minor burns, wounds, psoriasis and frostbite, as well as inflammation associated with skin conditions such as eczema, cold sores and pruritis. It has also been proven to be effective in preventing or alleviating the side effects of cancer radiation therapy.

Application

AltMD.com recommends applying pure aloe vera gel to the skin directly from a fresh aloe leaf. Break off a leaf from an aloe plant and then slice it lengthwise to expose its inner layers. Scoop out the gel and apply it to the affected area immediately.

Warning

The National Institutes of Health, NIH, cautions against applying aloe vera gel to your skin right before exposing it to sunlight, which may cause a skin rash. The NIH also notes that individuals who have a known allergy to onion, garlic, onions or any other plants in the Liliaceae family may suffer an allergic reaction to aloe. Using aloe vera gel for prolonged periods of time may result in allergic reactions that include hives and a breakout of a skin rash.