Happy New Year everyone - although not the best start with the intense lockdowns, here’s hoping it gets better!

Following on from my last blog - the benefits of aloe vera when taken as a supplement, this blog will focus on the benefits of aloe vera when used topically.

Just a quick overview…

Aloe vera is perennial succulent plant that originates from Northern Africa. There are over 400 different aloe species that can be found around the world with aloe vera being the commonly used for medicinal purposes which dates back hundreds of years. If you walk into any health store today you will find it in many different forms, from gels, lotions, tablets to refreshing drinks. 

Aloe vera is made up of fleshy green leaves that contain a ‘gel’ which is what will come to mind for most when they think of the plant. The gel contains antioxidants, antiviral, anti fungal, anti inflammatories and antibacterial properties. Interestingly aloe vera contains 20 amino acids, including 8 out of the 9 essential amino acids.

It has been used topically dating back 5000 years! So this is nothing new - just a reminder of the benefits of this succulent.

Topically aloe vera has been used to:

Treat psoriasis

There have been many studies done on aloe vera and the positive benefits in treating skin conditions such as psoriasis. Aloe vera has anti inflammatory properties and psoriasis happens to be an inflammatory disease. It additionally provides relief from itchy dry skin.

Soothes sunburn and other burns

One of the most well know topical benefits of aloe vera is it’s ability to help in the healing process of sunburn. (including other first and second degree burns) Again thanks to the anti inflammatory benefits of aloe vera. Aloe vera also helps to keep the skin moisturised and prevent peeling. 

Helps heal cold sores

Aloe vera contains excellent cold sore fighting properties, along with the anti inflammatory effects, it also contain anti viral properties which can speed up the healing time.

Helps heal wounds

Along with the anti inflammatory and antiviral benefits aloe vera contains anti bacterial and antiseptic benefits making it an excellent natural treatment for wounds. It can even help treat acne.

If you are thinking about using aloe vera topically make sure you do a small test patch and wait 24hours before using it again to check for any reactions.