Medicinal Uses of Aloe Vera

If you live in the warm or tropical regions of the country, you've probably seen an aloe vera plant. In fact, you might have some growing right there in your yard. They have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years and still are today. Though used to treat many conditions, in treating many skin conditions, the aloe vera has proven its worth time after time.

History

• For thousands of years the aloe vera plant has been used by many civilizations for its medicinal worth. The Sumerians were considered the first to document the medicinal properties of the aloe vera plant. Papyrus documents from ancient Egypt have also been found noting at least 12 formulas aloe vera was used in. These treatments cured everything from skin disorders to other problems with the internal workings of the body. In 375 B.C., the aloe vera was widely used in India for its medicinal powers. The aloe vera is even mentioned in the Bible. Tropical regions of the world as well as Africa were places the aloe vera called home. As trading throughout the world increased, the aloe vera was transported to different regions.

Description

• The aloe vera plant is a succulent belonging in the genus of aloes. It's a tall, spiky plant and the leaves grow like long rosettes. These plants prefer dry, warm conditions but are basically pretty hardy. To extract the medicine from the plant, you first need to cut one of the leaves off. By removing the thin outside layer of green flesh, the gel-like interior will be exposed. This is where all the benefits are within the plant. Though some products advertise the whole plant, it's the gel-like substance that's needed for whatever symptom you're using it on.

Skin Problems

• For centuries the benefits of the aloe plant and certain skin conditions has been known. If you are suffering a sunburn, by rubbing the gel on your affected area, the burn and chance of blistering will be relieved. The aloe vera is also used to treat cuts, minor skin infections, insect bites, itching, burns, eczema, acne, dry skin as well as fungal infections. Many cosmetics include aloe vera in them for their healing properties.

Other Uses

• Other than treating skin disorders, the aloe vera is used to treat many other conditions. Some of these treatments have been proved to be true, while others are still being tested. For years the juice of the aloe vera has been used as a laxative and digestive aid. Its juice is very bitter, so it's usually mixed with something else to mask the taste. Be advised that by drinking aloe vera juice, you may experience severe cramping. It's also thought that aloe vera may help the effects of colitis. Though there are no studies to prove its validity, the plant is also used to treat diabetics, ulcers and elevated blood lipids. Many people believe taking an aloe vera extract will strengthen their immune systems. In fact, dogs and cats that are fighting cancer have been given aloe vera as a immunostimulant.

Forms

• Aloe vera can be purchased in many forms. If you grow one yourself, you'll always have the gel from the leaves ready to use as a medicine. Many cosmetics use aloe vera in the form of lotions or creams. You can also purchase aloe vera in the drink form as well as pill. It's also manufactured in salves, gels and lotions to be used to treat various conditions of the skin.