Aloe Vera Remedies

Aloe vera is a succulent that has a long history of use as a medicinal remedy for a variety of conditions and ailments. Aloe vera is sold in health food stores and ethnic markets in juice, gel and capsule form and is often added to lotions creams and other cosmetic items.

History

Use of aloe vera has been found in ancient Egyptian papyrus and is mentioned in the Bible. Later, aloe vera is mentioned as a medicinal remedy in traditional healing pharmacopoeias around the world.

Usage

Traditionally aloe vera has been used as a remedy for many skin ailments including burns, wound healing and dermatitis and orally as a laxative.

Claims

There are many reports of aloe vera now being used as a remedy for a wide variety of ailments such as cancer, HIV, and for immune stimulating benefits. Most of these claims have not been backed up by the scientific community.

Effects

Aloe vera is an effective skin moisturizer and is a great addition to a skin lotion or remedy.

Considerations

Aloe vera is generally considered non-toxic, but as with all natural remedies, an experienced practitioner should be sought for specific health advice.

Resources

• Information from the Mayo Clinic on Aloe Vera