The aloe vera plant, well known for its healing properties throughout the world, is a perennial plant that is commonly found in East and South Africa as well as other tropical areas, but there are over 200 species throughout the world in dry areas. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, Indians, and the Chinese all used the aloe plant for health and beauty applications thousands of years ago. The parts of the plant that are utilized are the leaves, which are one to two feet long and whitish green on both sides with spiny teeth on the margins. The plant which is a member of the lily family also bears pretty yellow flowers and triangular shaped fruit. Aloe vera contains allantoin which is what gives it its healing properties. It also contains naturally occurring antioxidants in the form of vitamins B complex, C and E, plus beta-carotene which is converted by the body into vitamin A, all needed desperately by the skin.

Aloe vera is not only an additive in expensive moisturizing creams and sunburn treatments. It is used in countless cosmetic and hair products. Aloe is not only for use in processed products, however. The powerful leaves of this elegant cactus like plant can easily be utilized by the skin. The incredibly hydrating gel on the inside of the leaf can be rubbed directly onto minor burns, cuts, scratches, and skin irritations for a natural and soothing remedy. Additionally, aloe can be rubbed on wrinkles as well as on insect bites to help relieve the itching, burning, and swelling. It is not only known as a skin healer, but also as a moisturizer, and softener. It is also dramatically effective on bruises, acne, blemishes, poison ivy, skin ulcers, and eczema. It can also be helpful in fighting hard to remedy problems like varicose veins. It has also been used to treat athlete’s foot, canker sores, other mouth sores, and psoriasis. Aloe vera has been said to speed healing, reduce scarring, retards aging, and penetrates with moisture carrying added emollients that soak deep into the layers of the skin. If you do not have access to your own aloe vera plant, and do not have interest in cultivating your own (they are very easy to grow), aloe vera juice can be effective in your treatments applied directly to the skin, mixed with other natural ingredients and applied to the skin, or taken internally. When using the actual leaf of the plant and squeezing out the natural gel, keep in mind that aloe vera sap and plant oxidizes in 4 hours after it has been cut open. Try putting the leftover leaf in a plastic bag and use it within a few hours of cutting it. For a stabilized option, look for commercial preparations that contain 98-99% pure aloe. A few tablespoons of this stabilized aloe vera gel can be added to any of your moisturizing cosmetics to increase their effectiveness.

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