Aloe Vera: Medicinal Uses

The aloe vera plant is native to Africa and grows best in warm and dry climates. There are 400 species of aloe vera but the one most popular and grown in homes is the Aloe Barbadensis Miller. Also referred to as "true aloe" this is the species that has incredible medicinal value. Medical historians say that the aloe vera plant has been in use as a healing agent for over 4000 years based on findings of ancient records.

External medicinal uses include:

Juice found in the fleshy leaves of the aloe vera can be used to heal skin rashes, vaginal infections and other fungus type medical problems.

Aloe gel aids in soothing the pain from burns and blisters. It has also been shown to lessen the sting of a herpes outbreak.

Warts, psoriasis and eczema have all been treated with aloe juice and had very positive results. Many of the lotions and creams that are for the skin usually contain some aloe vera.

Sunburn, frostbite, rosacea, warts and even shingles have all been successfully treated with the juice found in the aloe vera plant.

Internal medicinal uses:

When mixed with milk, aloe juice can be consumed for the treatment of kidney infections.

The inner leaves of the aloe plant contain aloin which is an ingredient used in laxatives.

Taken orally, aloe vera has shown to be an effective form of treatment against arthritis and rheumatism pain, heartburn, and asthma.

The aloe plant is somewhat of a medical wonder as it has shown such positive results in treating many different conditions. Stomach ulcers, congestion, hemorrhoids, urinary tract infections, prostate problems liver problems such as cirrhosis and hepatitis are just a handful of health issues that have shown improvement after the use of aloe vera.

Perhaps the most promising use of this plant can be found in studies where it was proven to activate white blood cells and promote the growth of non cancerous blood cells. The National Cancer Institute has included aloe vera in further research and testing since it has shown potential in cancer treatment.

Due to aloe vera's apparent immune system stimulant abilities it is also being researched as treatment for HIV and AIDS.

With such a wide range of medicinal uses it would seem the aloe vera plant and it's juices will continue to have a large impact in the medical field. This is good news for those who prefer a more natural option of treating some health issues.