The many uses of Aloe Vera

The aloe vera is a prickly plant cultivated in the warmer climates of Africa, the southern states of North America and Australia as well as many other countries, and is known for its medicinal properties. Preparations of the plant exist in many forms including aloe vera gel, juice, tooth gel and moisturisers.

Aloe vera gel
Perhaps one of the most widely known preparations of the plant is aloe vera gel, which can be used to provide relief for burns to the skin, irritations and minor wounds. It is believed to be effective due to its anti-inflammatory properties resulting from the polysaccharides contained within, which stimulate skin repair and growth [1].

Aloe vera juice
The processed juice of the aloe is used to soothe internal complaints such as heart burn, indigestion and constipation. Aloe vera juice is thought to stimulate the release of the gastric juice pepsin, which aids in the digestive process [2], and also contains glycoproteins which work to reduce pain and inflammation. It is also a powerful laxative [3].

Aloe vera toothpaste
A study published by the General Dentistry in 2009 claimed that aloe vera tooth gel was just as effective at preventing cavities as regular toothpaste and can also help to soothe gums [4]. Aloe vera tooth gel can also be used to prevent and treat gingivitis and periodontis as its antiseptic properties reach all areas of the month to kill harmful bacteria, whilst its anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce swelling and bleeding of the gums [5].

Aloe vera balms and moisturisers
Aloe vera is a popular additive to many lip balms, moisturisers, hand washes and other products due to its soothing qualities.


[1] University of Maryland Medical Center (2008). Aloe. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/aloe-000221.htm
[2] Herb Wisdom (2010). Aloe vera Benefits and Information. http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-aloe-vera.html
[3] University of Maryland Medical Center (2008). Aloe. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/aloe-000221.htm
[4] Health Care n Diet (2010).Is aloe vera the most versatile plant of all? http://www.healthcarendiet.com/2010/04/12/is-aloe-vera-the-most-versatile-plant-of-all/
[5] Beepropolis (2010). Aloe Vera Gets Thumbs Up on Oral Care. http://beepropolis.org/aloe-vera-gets-thumbs-up-on-oral-care