Uses for Aloe Gel

Aloe vera gel, or simply aloe gel, is a clear, mucilaginous substance that is obtained by slicing open the succulent leaves of the aloe vera plant (Aloe barbadensis). The leaves of this herb are composed of three layers, and aloe gel is contained in the cells of the innermost layer of each leaf. Aloe gel is the part of the aloe vera plant that is most widely used for medicinal and therapeutic purposes.

Cure Oral Lichen Planus

Aloe gel can be used as a topical remedy for oral lichen planus (OLP), a painful, chronic inflammatory disease that affects the lining of the mouth, usually causing lacy, white patches to form. A 2007 research study published in the "British Journal of Dermatology" presents a case report in which aloe vera gel was successfully used in the treatment of oral lichen planus. The study concluded that this herbal gel can be considered to be a safe, alternative remedy for this condition.

Heal Burns and Wounds

James A. Duke, Ph.D., writes that aloe vera gel is an ancient remedy for burns and wounds. He cites Varro Tyler, Ph.D., professor emeritus of pharmacognosy at Purdue University, who notes that findings from scientific studies have provided support for the traditional use of this herb. One such study attributes aloe vera's healing properties to its capacity to increase blood flow to the affected area, delivering more of the body's own healing resources to the damaged tissue. Aloe vera gel has also been shown to have antibacterial and antifungal properties that help prevent infection of the burn or wound.

Manage Peptic Ulcers

In a preliminary report published in the "Journal of the American Osteopathic Association," Julian J. Blitz, D.O. et.al., conclude that aloe vera gel is clinically beneficial in the treatment and prevention of peptic ulcers. This conclusion is based on the findings of a study involving 12 patients who had been clinically diagnosed as having peptic ulcers. They were treated with an emulsion of fresh, cellulose-free aloe vera gel and heavy liquid petrolatum. All the patients involved in the study recovered completely after treatment with this aloe vera gel emulsion. After this treatment, the aloe vera gel medication was continued in smaller daily doses for preventive purposes, and there were no recurrences of the peptic ulcers after 18 months of this preventive management.