Aloe vera consists of the clear gel that is extracted from the pulp of the leaves of the aloe vera plant. According to the National Institutes of Health's National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), aloe vera has been used as far back as 6,000 years ago in Egypt. Since then, aloe vera has found a regular place in alternative treatments for health problems ranging from burns to dry skin.
Burn Relief
One of the many ways aloe vera is used in alternative medicine is for burn relief. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, aloe vera is a natural pain reliever. Aloe vera is a popular ingredient in many over-the-counter pain remedies, especially treatment products for sunburns.
Inflammation
Aloe vera gel is also believed to help control inflammation. In fact, some studies, such as a 1996 study published in the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology," have shown that aloe vera may work better on inflammation than a 1 percent solution of hydrocortisone cream. Aloe vera's effects on inflammation have launched research into the possible use of aloe vera as a treatment for inflammatory skin conditions including genital herpes and psoriasis.
Abrasions
According to the NCCAM, preliminary evidence has shown aloe vera to have some abilities in helping heal abrasions on the skin. However, the NCCAM also reports that aloe vera gel can have a negative influence on surgical deep wounds, inhibiting their ability to heal.
Moisturizer
Aloe vera is often found in skin care products as a moisturizer and skin revitalizing agent. According to the Mayo Clinic, preliminary research shows applying aloe vera is an effective way to reduce skin dryness. Aloe vera contains a substance known as lignin, which allows it to easily penetrate deep into the tissue when applied to the skin.
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