Herb & Aloe Skin Benefits

If you've ever suffered sunburn from sitting too long in the sun, you've probably slathered aloe vera gel all over to soothe it. Aloe vera is an ancient herb that has been used for centuries to treat various skin disorders, including burns and dry skin. Its succulent leaves contain a clear, viscous gel that can be applied directly to the skin; it is also available in many commercial preparations. Although it is available over-the-counter, talk to your doctor before using aloe vera on any serious burns or wounds.

Using Aloe Vera Herb

Aloe vera, whose name means "true aloe," is a tropical plant that may have originated in ancient Egypt and is now cultivated all over the world. AltMD states you can break off one of the plant's fleshy gray-green leaves, slitting it lengthwise, to obtain fresh gel which can be applied directly to your skin. Discard the leaf immediately after use, as the gel degrades quickly after exposure to air. Commercial preparations containing aloe can also be used to treat some skin disorders. Purchase products listing aloe vera as the primary ingredient and never apply it to an open wound, serious burn or broken skin.

Sunburn, Burns and Wounds

Aloe vera has a long history of use as a treatment for first- and second-degree burns and minor wounds. Aloe vera appears to increase the speed of wound healing and activate the immune cells responsible for fighting off infection, allowing a burn or wound to heal quickly and cleanly. It can also soothe the pain and irritation of a burn. A report published in the medical journal "Acta Dermatoveneral Croatica" states that a 0.5 percent aloe vera cream decreases healing time and is superior to the burn medication silver sulfadiazine in the treatment of first- and second-degree burns.

Dry Skin And Wrinkles

Aloe vera is a natural moisturizer that is used to hydrate dry skin and smooth age-related wrinkles. When applied directly, it readily penetrates the skin and acts to increase the amount of oxygen brought to skin cells. Aloe contains a wealth of active constituents, including amino acids, fatty acids, zinc and vitamins C and E, which are important in the process of skin repair. Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Herbal Healing," says aloe vera is particularly beneficial in rejuvenating skin damaged by the sun.

Other Skin Benefits

Aloe contains salicylates, anti-inflammatory compounds which are the precursors of salicylic acid, the active ingredient in aspirin. Aloe is used for psoriasis and eczema, acting to calm inflammation and relieve pain and itching. Aloe vera may slow the skin effects of frostbite by bringing extra oxygen to damaged cells. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, application of a 0.5 percent aloe vera cream may help improve the symptoms of genital herpes. Aloe can also be used to treat radiation burns from cancer treatment and soothe the itching of poison ivy and insect stings.