Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera or otherwise called Aloes, Barbados aloe or Curacao aloe has been traditionally used as herbal medicine. It was found out that during 2100 BC it has been already utilized, as evidently written in a Mesopotamian clay tablet. It is useful as treatment for wounds, burns and other skin conditions. Aloe Vera is classified as an anti-inflammatory agent, laxative, general tonic, aphrodiasiac and anti-worm by ancient races such as Spaniards, Indians, Arabs, Greeks, and Romans.
It is believed that Alexander the Great, the most popular king of Macedonia, conquered an island in the Indian Ocean which has an abundance of Aloe Vera, in order to treat his much-loved soldiers. In today’s society, Aloe Vera is used to ease skin diseases and treat burns. It is integrated in many beauty and cosmetic products, proving very satisfying results.
The part that is usually used in Aloe Vera is its magical leaf, from which several health products are made, namely the juice, extract, gel and the exudates. The exudates are yellow-colored, tastes bitter and has thick residue, coming from the latex. It is made of 99% water and sugar as well. The gel is a clear gel produced by the central part of the leaf. It contains several well-known beneficial minerals such as sodium, iron, zinc, chromium, copper, magnesium, manganese, potassium, and calcium. It also contains sufficient amount of folic acid, niacin, thiamine, vitamins A, B12, C, and E. On the other hand, diluted aloe gel is otherwise known as aloe juice or Aloe Vera extract.
What are the health benefits of Aloe Vera?
Main Actions
Antibacterial
Anti-inflammatory
Antioxidant
Anti-ulcer
Antiviral
Assist in faster wound healing
Boost immune system
Hypoglycemic
Laxative
Known Uses
Although Aloe Vera products have many uses, the main usage is really to treat skin conditions. Aloe is used to heal wounds at a faster rate, treat burns, ulcers, genital herpes, frostbite and psoriasis. The healing action may be due to its anti-clotting, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
Most studies suggest that skin application of Aloe Vera gel is more effected in wound healing and effectively reduces bacteria. However, there are some negative studies, as it has been found that Aloe Vera gel composition varies, even within the same species. Composition mainly depends on the processing method used, including the region, climate, and source. Scientists also found out that Aloe Vera significantly reduced redness, dermatitis, wrinkling, irritation, dry skin and improved skin integrity.
Skin Conditions
Burns
Frostbite
Genital Herpes
HIV
Psoriasis
Radiation-induced dermatitis
Ulcers
Gastrointestinal Conditions
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Ulcerative Colitis
Other Uses
Asthma
Cancer
Diabetes
Dosage Range
Aloe Vera gel: fresh from a living plant or as stabilized juice of 25 ml, which can be used up to four times a day.
Extracts standardized to acemannan: each preparation should contain up to 800 mg/day.
Topical application: gel, cream or ointment as required.
1.5–4.5 ml daily of 1:10 tincture of resin (latex).
Adverse Reaction
A 47-year old man claimed he was hypersensitive and was able to manifest contact dermatitis, generalized rashes and itchiness with 4 years intake of oral and topical Aloe Vera. On the other hand, patch tests for aloe also resulted same results.
Significant Interactions
Precaution should be considered when taking Aloe Vera with the following drugs.
Hypoglycemic Agents
Laxatives
Topical Steroid Preparations
Contraindications and Precautions
Caution with person with thyrotoxicosis
Children: avoid strong laxative
Depression and reduced T3 and T4 (thyroid hormones)
Do not use for more than 2 weeks, as potassium can be depleted, which may possibly harm the heart
Hypersensitive to Aloe
Person suffering from nausea, vomiting, or other signs of GI obstruction
Pregnancy Use
Strong laxative such as aloe latex are contraindicated.
* Known Benefits
Aloe may be beneficial adjunct as treatment of chronic fatigue, cancer, HIV, and treatment of chronic poor immunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What benefits can I get from this herb?
Aloe Vera has been proven to be very effective in treating wounds, burns, and other skin inflammation. However, the composition of Aloe Vera products may vary depending on processing factor and geographical location. It is also used as treatment for GI disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, gastrointestinal ulcer and dyspepsia.
When can I expect its full therapeutic action?
Aloe has an immediate health effect on skin inflammation and burns. Improvement can be noticed after several days or week of usage, with satisfying results. However, chronic illnesses may require long-term use. But, if use as laxative, it can produce result in 12-24 hours only.
Are there any safety health issues that I need to consider?
As what experts say, aloe gel is non-toxic and safe to use. However, avoid chronic use of laxative preparations containing highly irritant compound called anthraquinone glycosides, mostly found in the latex.
