According to the World Health Organization, aloe vera is a, "succulent, almost sessile perennial herb." It is a member of the lily family, which looks similar to cactus. The plant produces gel and latex, which are used for medicinal purposes. Aloe gel is a jelly-like clear substance found in the inner part of the leaf, and aloe latex is taken from just under the plant's skin. The whole crushed leaf is also used in some products.
Type 2 Diabetes Benefits
MedlinePlus states that "studies indicate that aloe gel can reduce blood sugar in women with type 2 diabetes." More evidence is required to prove its effectiveness on this disease, however. The University of Maryland Medical center recommends using a combination of aloe vera and glyburide, a medication used for treatment of type 2 diabetes, to aid in blood sugar balance. This combination may help control triglyceride levels in the blood as well.
You can use aloe latex in combination with other diabetes medications or alone, but you should consult your doctor before adding aloe latex or any aloe to your treatment regimen. If you choose to use aloe latex, your doctor should closely monitor you to prevent low blood sugar complications.
Skin Benefits
MayoClinic.com states that aloe vera has been traditionally used as a moisturizer for the skin. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, aloe vera is used in many skin products for women, including lotions, moisturizers and sunblocks. Aloe vera is also believed to soothe irritated skin, rashes and acne.
The plant can help hydrate your skin, repair your skin tissue and is effective for treating certain skin conditions. Some women may take aloe vera orally to help treat skin conditions such as psoriasis. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that aloe vera gel can help treat skin conditions such as ultraviolet-induced erythema.
Sun Burn Benefits
Women often use aloe vera gel for cooling and treating sunburns because of its soothing agents. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that aloe vera contains active compounds that may minimize inflammation and pain and stimulate the repair of burns. Maryland states, "In a review of the scientific literature, researchers found that patients who were treated with aloe vera healed an average of almost nine days sooner than those who weren't treated with the medicinal plant."
Aloe vera is commonly recommended for minor sun burns, but should not be applied to open burn wounds. Women who regularly tan should keep aloe vera on hand for immediate topical treatment and pain relief if burns occur.
References
- MedlinePlus: Aloe
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Aloe
- National Center of Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Aloe Vera
- MayoClinic.com: Aloe (Aloe Vera)
- World Health Organization: Who Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Possible Interactions with Aloe
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