Aloe vera gel is one of the oldest and the most common plant-based home remedies. The gel, latex and juice have been used in both raw and processed states for thousands of years, to treat a variety of ills and ailments. Unlike many home remedies, some aloe vera benefits look promising in preliminary clinical trials and others have been conclusively proven. Using aloe vera for medicinal purposes should never take the place of your doctor's advice or prescription medications.
Heals Burns
According to a 2007 review published in "Burns," the journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries, the evidence of at least four studies showed that minor burns treated with aloe vera healed a little over eight days sooner than burns on the control group. The review concluded that aloe vera may be effective in treating first- and second-degree burns, though more studies with stricter clinical controls are needed. Never try to treat a serious burn without consulting a physician.
Relieves Constipation
The gel inside of an aloe vera leaf contains a substance called aloin, which is a powerful laxative. According to researchers at MayoClinic.com, the laxative properties of aloin have been scientifically proven, though tests on laxatives containing aloe vera along with other ingredients are less conclusive. The University of Maryland Medical Center cautions that there are other plant-based laxatives, like senna and cascara, that are safer and not as harsh.
Treats Genital Herpes
MayoClinic.com has given aloe vera a grade of "B" for its effectiveness in treating genital herpes in men. A double-blind study reviewed in the "Indian Journal of Dermatology" found that the anti-inflammatory effects of aloe vera gel were superior to those of either hydrocortisone cream or a placebo gel. More studies are needed to confirm this, and aloe vera gel should never be used in place of prescription herpes ointments.
Soothes Inflammation
According to a 1996 study published in the "Journal of Natural Products," aloe vera contains a compound called C-glucosyl chromone that reduces inflammation and stimulates skin growth and repair more effectively than hydrocortisone cream. More studies are needed, so consult your doctor before trying to treat rashes, burns or other skin conditions on your own.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Aloe
- Union County College: Aloe Vera
- Go Ask Alice: Aloe Vera - What Is It Good For?
- PubMed: The Efficacy of Aloe Vera Used for Burn Wound Healing: A Systematic Review
- MayoClinic.com: Aloe (Aloe Vera)
- "Indian Journal of Dermatology"; Aloe Vera: A Short Review; Amar Surjushe, Resham Vasani, and D G Saple; 2008
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