How to Use Aloe Vera

By eHow Arts & Entertainment Editor

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The aloe vera plant is one of the most famous plants in the world, and is used widely for its medicinal properties. It also makes for an attractive houseplant. Read on and find out how you can best use this versatile plant.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy
Step1
Place pots of aloe vera in front of any sunny window or on a shady porch during the growing season. Aloe vera plants are easy to care for and require bright light and water once every two weeks.
Step2
Break off a leaf for use when you need it. Use aloe vera fresh and as soon as you remove it from the plant. Aloe vera's healing properties decrease over time. Aloe vera can be purchased in the store, but it is most effective when used fresh.
Step3
Rub aloe vera on sunburned skin. Aloe vera has anesthetic and anti-bacterial properties, which soothes the skin and helps it heal sooner. It also has tissue restoration properties to help skin heal without scarring.
Step4
Apply aloe vera with a poultice to more severe burns and skin ailments. Cut a whole leaf down the middle and place a strip of leaf directly on the ailing skin. Take the aloe to skin using gauze.
Step5
Use aloe vera to treat acne, eczema, arthritis and oily skin. Squeeze the juice out onto the troubled skin and rub it in.

Tips & Warnings

  • Aloe vera can cause dry skin. If this is a problem, use a moisturizer along with the aloe vera. Vitamin E also helps dry skin.
  • Avoid using aloe vera internally. If consumed, aloe vera can cause intestinal pain.

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clawson44

clawson44 said

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on 9/17/2008 I also found some great information about aloe vera juice benefits at http://squidoo.com/aloe-vera-juice-benefit that you might want to check out.

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eHow Article: How to Use Aloe Vera

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