Pain relief may be achieved by taking an aloe-based supplement or topical solution. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM, aloe vera is used for treating sunburns, muscle pain and other discomfort in the body. You can find aloe in topical lotions, creams and as an herbal supplement. Consult your doctor before starting any new treatment for pain.
History
The aloe vera plant as a medicinal resource can be traced back 6,000 years to early Egypt, according to the NCCAM. Known as the "plant of immortality," aloe was presented as a burial gift to deceased Egyptian royalty. Aloe vera is also called burn plant, lily of the desert, elephant's gall and aloin.
Uses
The NCCAM says aloe contains active ingredients that can be made into a gel or added to a lotion. When applied to the skin, for example, these ingredients are absorbed by the skin and may alleviate pain associated with minor cuts, scrapes or burns. Aloe can also be used as a natural laxative when taken as an oral supplement. Consult your doctor to learn more about additional uses for this plant.
Benefits
Aloe supplements or lotions offer many benefits to the patient. For example, MayoClinic.com suggests that this supplement can be used in the treatment of skin burns, skin ulcers, wound healing and minor skin irritations such as dermatitis or dandruff. Further study into these claims must be conducted in order to determine the consistency of health benefit. MayoClinic.com also suggests aloe may be used in the treatment of genital herpes in men.
Precautions
The NCCAM lists a few side effects associated with aloe. You may experience stomach irritation or diarrhea after taking it orally. People with diabetes who use glucose-regulating medication should not use aloe oral supplements due to a risk of lowering blood glucose levels. As a topical solution or lotion, there are no known side effects. Consult your doctor if you experience irritation or discomfort after using aloe for pain.
Misconceptions
Using aloe supplements or lotions for the treatment of pain is not to serve as an alternative to additional medical treatment. If your pain or skin condition is severe, seek medical help immediately before applying aloe. Additional treatment for your condition may be required.
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