Reports of aloe vera's first medicinal use date back 6,000 years to ancient Egypt, where the "plant of immortality," treated a variety of health disorders. Aloe, a relative of the cactus, contains medicinal substances, gel and latex. Aloe gel's clear, congealed attributes make it useful for topical application. The gel comes from inside the aloe leaf. The plant's latex comes from the area under the plant's skin.
Stimulates the Bowel
The anthraquinone glycoside compounds in aloe latex give it laxative effects. Aloe latex can help bring on a bowel movement within 10 hours. Over time, the body builds a tolerance, and achieving a laxative effect requires increasingly higher doses. Aloe latex can eventually leach potassium from intestinal cell linings and cause interrupted peristalsis, preventing bowel movements. Do not use aloe latex as a laxative on a long-term basis
Topical Wound Healer
Aloe has long been used as a topical skin healer. Aloe gel treats conditions including infections, wounds, burns, psoriasis, sunburn, frostbite and cold sores. As a post-hospital treatment, the gel speeds healing of surgical wounds and bed sores. The gel kills pathogens and increases nutrient and oxygen circulation through the affected area's capillaries.
May Lower Blood Glucose
The use of aloe reduced blood glucose levels in rats in a 2005 study by researchers at the University of Madras in India. The plant's extract provided antioxidants responsible for this effect. A 300 mg concentration given to diabetic rats showed lowered blood glucose and lipid oxidation. The extract treatment also improved liver and kidney function. However, more studies on this effect need to be done on human subjects.
Treats Herpes Sores
Aloe gel heals inflammation and can eradicate microbes. These properties help heal genital herpes sores. The gel applied to sore outbreaks alleviates redness, swelling and possible infections. The gel's clear, gelatinous qualities make aloe ideal for treating topical skin conditions.
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