Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis) is one of the most respected plants in natural medicine. Known by many as “nature’s pharmacy,” it is used to help heal a wide variety of human ailments, especially skin problems such as dryness, flaking, itching, cracking, and fungal conditions such as athlete’s foot. Aloe Vera is a robust, fierce-looking, subtropical plant from the lily family – closely related to onions, leeks, garlic, tulips and asparagus. Most botanists agree, and historical evidence suggests, that the Aloe Vera plant originated in the warm, dry climate of Africa. But because the plant adapts easily and because people are so eager to carry it with them from one place to another, it can now be found all over the world. In the United States, it is grown commercially in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, in California and in specially designed greenhouses in Oklahoma.
Benefits of Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera has numerous therapeutic benefits. In terms of topical application (external use) they are as follows:
To improve the general skin condition
Aloe Vera is rich in water and helps hydrate the skin and retain moisture. It can help strengthen the skin’s natural elasticity, reduce fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation (dark spots). It can also be helpful for dark circles and bags under the eyes. View our range of Aloe Vera eye gels.
To soften and repair hard skin
Aloe Vera is keratolytic, meaning it can soften hard skin. This, combined with its cooling properties, makes it ideal for use in foot preparations. Try our Soothing Foot Gel or Foot Spa Massage Gel.
As an antipruritic agent to reduce itching and burning
Aloe Vera can be a useful after-sun treatment and anti-itching. Hormonal itching, itching during pregnancy, itching after anesthesia and eczema, itching in psoriasis and dermatitis can be relieved.
Safety note – Itching can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition. Always consult your doctor if the complaints persist.
To fight infections
Aloe Vera can help fight infections, making it a valuable all-round product for the home and salon. It protects the skin against harmful bacteria and helps reduce redness and itching. Data shows that its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties may be useful for acne-prone skin and other skin conditions prone to infections.
To treat dandruff
Aloe vera proves to be an effective treatment for dandruff and scalp irritation, flaking and flaking caused by seborrheic dermatitis.
Treating wounds and burns
Aloe Vera can be beneficial for wounds and burns, helping to fight infections and reduce swelling and inflammation.
To strengthen the immune system
Ongoing studies around the world suggest that Aloe Vera can boost the body’s natural defense system, making it useful for people whose health is generally poor or who are recovering from an illness or for those under severe stress.
To help arthritis
Anecdotal reports suggest that applying Aloe Vera can help reduce swelling and inflammation in arthritic joints. It is therefore a useful base into which an aromatherapist can blend pain-relieving essential oils. For a ready-to-use mix, try our Joint & Muscle Gel with Aloe Vera, Seaweed, Black Pepper, Lavender and Plai.
To alleviate hormonal symptoms
The cooling, conditioning properties of Aloe Vera can be helpful in soothing the symptoms of hormonal disorders, including hot flashes. Try our Aloe Vera & Rose Gel with pure rose essential oil to balance mood, hormones and skin!
To minimize scars
Aloe Vera can help repair scars that are less than five years old.
Practical applications for home or in the salon
Beauty treatments
Aloe Vera Gel can be used for moisturizing, cooling and restorative facial care treatments such as cleansers, customized facial masks, under eye treatments and for facial massage.
After waxing
The cooling, soothing and antibacterial properties of Aloe Vera make it an ideal product to use after waxing. Our Tea Tree & Lavender Gel with Calendula is ideal to soothe and protect the skin after waxing.
Nail and hair treatments
Aloe Vera can be used to repair, repair and strengthen hair and nails and to treat nail infections.
As a water-based massage medium/carrier
Aloe Vera has an affinity with the skin and is easily absorbed, making it an ideal carrier for essential oils where a non-oil based massage medium is preferred.
Make your own product ingredient
Aloe Vera is easy to use, very useful and a “must-have” ingredient for both novice and experienced home product makers. It works well in soaps, creams, lotions, bath and shower gels and shampoos. Read our blog about using Aloe Vera to make your own custom face masks.
Basic Formula Team