Aloe Vera – the cool healer

(Aloe barbadenisis)

Of Aloe Vera’s many uses, most probably the best known is in the treatment of burns. Its triple action of pain relief and antiseptic and healing qualities makes this remedy suitable for even serious burns and scalds.

This makes Aloe Vera capable of repairing some of the damaging effects caused by ultra violet radiation. Healthy skin tissue is regenerated with little or no scarring.

The outside of the leaf is smooth and rubbery to touch and inside is the Aloe Vera “Gel” that is so highly regarded. The gel appears to contain a “WOUND HORMONE” that accelerates the rates of healing of injured surfaces. Scientists have found that the Aloe Vera “GEL” is a diverse mixture of antibiotic, astringent, coagulating agent, pain inhibitor, cell growth stimulator and scar inhibitor.

Aloe Vera contains allantoin, protein, minerals, vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, E and K, and 18 amino acids and a substance called Barbaloin which promotes the healing of reddened irritated skin, all of which give this herb its unique soothing, cooling antibacterial, anti-fungal and tissue restorative properties.

Various skin conditions, apart from burns, will also respond well to aloe vera gel treatment, ringworm and other fungal infections, infected cuts, abrasions, stings & bites and dry itchy skin. Aloe Vera’s wonderful skin moisturizing and healing properties are found in the mucilaginous gel in the thick fleshy leaves which contain soothing demulcents and emollients.

Aloe Vera is one of the oldest medicinal plants in history, and according to Hindu legend came directly from the Garden of Paradise. The ancient Assyrians, Babylonians, Egyptians and Jews endowed this remarkable plant with holy virtues. For centuries it has been surrounded by folklore about its wide range of benefits and healing powers, and known deservedly as the ‘holy herb’. Modern Herbalists are still recommending it for similar complaints, especially skin healing.