Aloe vera has a long history of use as a treatment for skin disorders, burns and wounds. At one time, aloe vera was widely used as a treatment for constipation, but the use of aloe vera as a laxative is no longer recommended because of gentler substitutes. Medical studies have shown that aloe vera has many medicinal benefits.
Cuts and Burns
The aloe vera plant contains anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving compounds. The plant also helps stimulate the growth of new skin. Minor wounds and burns typically respond well to aloe vera, and many over the counter treatments for these conditions contain aloe vera gel as one of the components. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that study results are conflicting, with some reporting injuries healing as much as nine days faster than they would without treatment, while other studies showing there is no increased speed of healing. Some studies have suggested that aloe vera may delay healing. Only use aloe vera on minor cuts and burns. Open wounds or blistering burns require a visit to the doctor.
Skin Conditions
There is medical evidence that aloe vera is an effective treatment for a variety of skin conditions, including seborrhea, dandruff, psoriasis and genital herpes. The benefits of aloe vera in treating these skin conditions appear to be a result of the anti-inflammatory properties of the gel, and in some cases are more effective than one percent hydrocortisone cream.
Leaky Gut
Leaky gut syndrome is a condition tied to irritable bowel syndrome as well as autoimmune disorders such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. It is the result of damage to the lining of the bowel. There is some evidence that ingesting aloe vera juice, along with other digestive enzymes such as bromelain, which is found in pineapples, may improve the symptoms of leaky gut. It is important to discuss the benefits of aloe vera with your physician before you add it to your diet.
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