Uses for Fresh Aloe

People have used the aloe vera plant as a natural way to treat a number of medical conditions for centuries. Grown in the Caribbean, South Africa and Latin America, aloe is one of the most well-known and commonly used herbs in the US. The plant is composed mainly of water but also contains glycoproteins and polysaccharides that are useful in reducing pain and inflammation, and repairing and growing skin, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Dry Skin

• Dry skin can develop for a number of reasons, including weather with low humidity and low temperatures, regularly taking hot baths and showers and sun exposure. It can cause symptoms such as itchiness, fine lines and redness when left untreated. Gel from the aloe plant has been traditionally used as a moisturizer, and can effectively eliminate dry skin, indicates MedlinePlus.

Burns

• Aloe gel, found in the middle of the leaf, is often used to treat burns and sunburns, and is a common ingredient in skin care products. Use of aloe gel can ease the pain and swelling that may result from burns, and may shorten the period of time necessary for healing, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. A person should use aloe to treat only minor burns. Severe burns require medical attention.

Dandruff

• Seborrheic dermatitis, commonly referred to as dandruff, can be caused by oily skin, failure to shampoo regularly or sensitivity to certain hair care products. It causes the scalp to itch, and flakes of dead skin fall from the scalp. Aloe gel, applied to the skin, can effectively treat dandruff, according to the Mayo Clinic website.

Canker Sores

• Canker sores, small lesions that form in the mouth near the bottom of the gums, can be treated with aloe. The sores can result from a number of causes, including an allergic response, minor injury or weakened immune system. Putting aloe gel on a canker sore can speed healing, suggests the Health website.