History

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  Aloe vera was one of Queen Cleopatra's beauty secrets for skin softening. The ancient Greeks used aloe vera for its medicinal and therapeutic characteristics. Only relatively recent to the United States, aloe vera was introduced in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Its was used for its soothing and healing effects on various skin conditions.
  
  

Content

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  Aloe vera's phytochemical and nutrient content make it such an all-around healing agent. Its phytochemicals include beta-carotene, cinnamic acid, coumarin and lignin. With nutrients, such as amino acids, calcium, iron, magnesium and B vitamins, aloe vera's constitution creates effective and rapid healing actions. (Information about aloe vera, its contents, medicinal characteristics and precautions are cited from "Prescription for Natural Healing").
  
  

Applications

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  Aloe vera is used as an astringent, emollient, and has antibacterial and antiviral properties. When applied to wounds, such as cuts and burns, aloe vera quickly soothes burning and pain while hastening the healing process by cell regeneration. It helps to prevent scarring as well. Taken internally, aloe vera can lowers cholesterol, ease inflammation caused by radiation therapy, and promote circulation in extremities. Aloe vera also eases stomach problems.
  
  

Benefits

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  Aloe vera offers a natural and rapid soothing action that is not generally found in most pharmaceutical medications for burns, cuts and other skin discomfort. Because aloe vera plants are so hardy, using fresh aloe gel from a plant leave is easy to do. It is also the most effective use. Specific skin problems that are eased by aloe vera include acne, burns, psoriasis and varicose veins.
  
  

Comments

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  Aloe vera is best used straight from the plant. Aloe products must contain at least 70 percent aloe to be effective. People rarely experience allergic reactions, but they do occur. To test for allergy, place a dab on the back of an arm. Look for fairly rapid stinging or rash. If such occurs, do not use. People with kidney or heart disease should avoid contact with aloe vera latex. Speak to a healthcare professional before taking aloe vera internally. For internal use, precautions are necessary . Diabetics should check glucose levels if drinking aloe vera juice. Do not ingest if pregnant or lactating.