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Aloe Leaf Benefits

The aloe vera plant is a slow-growing perennial that grows to around two feet high. It features thick emerald-green leaves edged with soft spines. People have used aloe medicinally for thousands of years and, according to the University of Maryland's Medical Center, it appeared as a common medicine throughout the 18th and 19th century. The plant's reported healing properties stem from glycoproteins and polysaccharides found in its leaves. Glycoproteins help reduce inflammation and pain, while polysaccharides can stimulate skin repair.

Burns
- The leaves of the aloe plant were traditionally sliced and pressed against the skin of a patient suffering from irritation or burns. It still sees use for the treatment of burns ranging from sunburn to radiation burns, according to Union County College. Aloe possesses active compounds that stimulate ski regeneration and reduce inflammation. Modern usage normally involves the application of aloe gel, made from the sap found at the center of the leaf. You can find aloe gel in many commercial cosmetics and skin lotions.
Laxative
- The inner lining of the aloe leaf contains a yellow liquid often referred to as aloe latex. It often appears as an ingredient in laxatives due to the cathartic properties of the anthroquinone glycosides found in it. Patients with constipation have traditionally taken aloe latex preparations but modern advice, such as that from the University of Maryland's Medical Center, considers it an unnecessarily powerful laxative.
Diabetes
- Preliminary studies have found that aloe juice may help with the treatment of diabetes. The University of Maryland's Medical Center reports that a combination of aloe vera and glyburide might assist in controlling the levels of blood sugar and fat in a diabetic's blood. Diabetics should consult their doctor before using any aloe derivatives in combination with other medications.

Nature