Aloe Vera Topical Benefits

Aloe Vera is a succulent plant that has long been cultivated for its many medicinal properties. Applied topically, the clear or white sap found inside the plant's fleshy leaves can effectively soothe and help to heal minor burns, including sunburns, and can also moisturize and cleanse the skin. It can also temporarily relieve such skin conditions as psoriasis and shingles.

History

Citizens of a few of ancient history's most powerful civilizations have made references to the use of Aloe Vera for its health benefits. Greek, Roman, Chinese and Indian physicians all favored the plant. A Sumerian tablet dating from 2100 B.C. contains the earliest written record of Aloe Vera's use, and queens of ancient Egypt used the plant as part of their beauty regime.

Features

Aloe Vera sap helps to stimulate cell renewal, contains antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, and it moisturizes and nourishes the skin. Scientists and manufacturers add it to gels, creams and lotions that treat minor burns, sterilize small wounds, moisturize dry and itchy skin, soothe sunburns and reduce acne lesions.

Function

Aloe Vera is included in facial tissues, soaps, shampoos and conditioners, moisturizing lotions, antibacterial creams, sunburn-relief lotions, ointments for the treatment of minor burns, anti-itch creams and skin-rejuvenating cosmetics.

Identification

Aloe Vera plants are stemless or semi-stemless, with fleshy green or gray-green pointed leaves featuring small white teeth along the edges and light-colored spots. The packaging or containers of topical products usually clearly indicate whether the product contains Aloe Vera. If unsure, check the list of ingredients.

Warning

Negative effects from the use of Aloe Vera are rare, however a few people do experience allergic reactions to the plants, lotions or gels. Although it looks like a cactus, Aloe Vera is actually a member of the same family of plants containing onions and lilies, therefore persons who are allergic to any types of those plants may also be allergic to Aloe Vera.