Aloe vera is a medicinal plant commonly cultivated in places with warm climates, like the Caribbean. It can also be grown at home, with a little care, as a house plant. Aloe vera is part of the lily family of plants. When the thick, partly thorny leaves are broken, the inside reveals the gelatinous sap that can be used for skin and other health issues.
Preparations of Aloe
For minor burns or bruises, the leaf of the aloe vera plant can be broken off and the sap applied to the skin. A solution of aloe vera juice can be obtained, usually from health food stores, and taken orally. It can be prepared in gels and soaps. In some places, it can even be found in soft drinks. Many cosmetic products contain aloe vera as well.
What Makes Up Aloe Vera
According to a Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center article about aloe vera, the following constituents make up aloe vera:
- Mono- and polysaccharides
- Tannins
- Sterols
- Organic acids
- Enzymes
- Saponins
- Vitamins
- Minerals
- Glucomannan, acemannan
- Emodin
- Lipids: cholesterol, gamolenic acid
Skin Benefits of Aloe Vera
Aloe vera’s most prominent benefit is its healing effect on the skin. Aloe vera has soothing properties that give pain relief and it also helps with wound healing. Frostbite, rashes, eczema, dandruff, gum disease and irritation from poisonous plants are sometimes treated with aloe vera.
Other Possible Benefits Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel, when ingested, can be used as a laxative since it stimulates the bowels.
According to an article on HowStuffWorks.com called “Aloe Vera: Herbal Remedies” written by Jennifer Brett, N.D. treatments of cancer and certain blood diseases with aloe vera are being studied. A component in aloe vera gel, called acemannan, is believed to stimulate the production of white blood cells. White blood cells are important in fighting disease. Aloin, another component in aloe, is being studied for use in the treatment of breast and ovarian cancer. More research needs to be done regarding aloe vera and cancer before the benefits are conclusive.
Warnings about Aloe Vera
Using aloe vera is not recommended for regular use as a laxative since there is a possibility the bowels may become dependent on it to function. Ingesting aloe vera gel may also cause gastrointestinal problems and lead to electrolyte abnormalties. Diabetics should use aloe vera with caution since it can lower blood sugar levels in the body.
Aloe vera may cause unwanted effects when it interacts with the following: oral glyburides, diuretics, digoxin, topical hydrocortisone, sevoflurane and chemotherapy.
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