The aloe plant has long been valued for its medicinal uses, according to Medicinal Herb Info. Aloe originated in East and South Africa, but it is now widely cultivated for its healing properties. The plant's long, thick leaves contain a clear latex material that is either applied directly to the skin or used to make other aloe products. Before using aloe, consult with your health care provider for instructions.
Psoriasis Explained
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine (USNLM), psoriasis is caused by a problem in the immune system that makes the skin cells behave improperly. It isn't contagious, and it is thought to be genetic. Normal skin cells are formed deep in the layers of skin, and within a month, they rise to the surface and are shed. In psoriasis, skin cells rise to the surface in a matter of days, causing thick, red and inflamed areas of the skin. Psoriasis can last a lifetime, and it can be worsened by stress, infections, skin irritation or dry skin.
Aloe and Psoriasis
According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), aloe is most commonly used to treat skin conditions such as burns, cold sores, dry skin and inflammation. The National Center for Complementary & Alternative medicine (NCCAM) adds that aloe is used to treat psoriasis. This is substantiated with information from the U.S. National Library of Medicine (USNLM). According to the USNLM, there is early clinical evidence that creams and extracts from the aloe plant may be an effective treatment for psoriasis. Of course, the way to get the freshest aloe is to grow a plant in a sunny window, then break off a leaf to get the thick, clear liquid inside.
Possible Side Effects
Most of the adverse reactions to aloe occur when it is ingested. Psoriasis sufferers should not ingest the aloe, but instead should use it as a topical treatment. The MSKCC reports that topical use of aloe is considered quite safe.
Potential Interactions
When aloe is applied to the skin, the USNLM notes that it could cause potentially harmful interactions with steroid creams. If you use steroid medications such as prednisone or hydrocortisone, you should not also use aloe. If you have questions about whether aloe will harmfully interact with any treatments you currently use, discuss them with your pharmacist or health care provider.
Considerations
According to the USNLM, if you have known allergies to garlic, onions, tulips or other plants from the plant family Liliaceae you should not use aloe, since it could also cause an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions can occur even if you have used a substance before with no reaction. Watch for signs of rash, hives or swelling of the tongue, throat, lips or face. If any of these occur, stop using aloe and contact your health care provider.
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