Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis) is one of the most revered plants in natural medicine. It is known by many as “nature’s pharmacy” and is used to help heal a wide range of human ailments, particularly skin problems such as drying, flaking, itching, cracking and fungal conditions like Athletes’ Foot. Aloe Vera is a robust, fierce looking, sub-tropical plant of 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. However, because the plant is readily adaptable, and because man has been so eager to carry it with him from place to place, it now can be found throughout 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 general skin condition
Aloe Vera is rich in water so it helps to hydrate the skin and lock in moisture. It can help boost 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. See our range of Aloe Vera Eye Gels.
To soften and recondition 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 anti-pruritic to reduce itching and burning
Aloe Vera can be a useful after-sun and anti-itch treatment. Hormonal itching, pregnancy itching, post anaesthetic itching and eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis itching may be relieved.
Safety note – Itching can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition – always see your doctor if it persists.
To fight infections
Aloe Vera can help fight infection which makes it a valuable all-round product for the home and the salon. It protects skin from harmful bacteria and helps reduce redness and itching. Data suggests that its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties may be helpful for acne-prone skin and other skin conditions that are prone to infection.
To treat dandruff
Aloe vera has been found to be an effective treatment for dandruff and the scalp irritation, scaliness, and flakiness caused by seborrheic dermatitis.
Treating wounds and burns
Aloe Vera can be beneficial for wounds and burns helping to fight infection and reduce swelling and inflammation.
To boost the immune system
Ongoing studies worldwide suggest that Aloe Vera can stimulate the body’s natural defence system so it is helpful for people whose health is generally weak or who are recuperating after illness or for people under severe stress.
To help arthritis
Anecdotal reports suggest that applying Aloe Vera may help to reduce swelling and inflammation in arthritic joints. It is therefore a useful base in which an aromatherapist could mix pain relieving essential oils. For a ready-made blend try our Joint & Muscle Gel with Aloe Vera, Seaweed, Black Pepper, Lavender and Plai.
To soothe hormonal symptoms
The cooling nurturing properties of Aloe Vera can be helpful in soothing the symptoms of hormonal disturbances including hot flushes. Try our Aloe Vera & Rose Gel with pure rose essential oil to balance mood, hormones and skin!
To minimize scarring
Aloe Vera may help to reverse scars that are less than five years old.
Practical uses for the home or salon
Beauty treatments
Aloe Vera Gel can be used for moisturising, cooling and restorative facial skincare treatments such as cleansers, custom-made 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 for calming and protecting the skin after waxing.
Nail and hair treatments
Aloe Vera can be used to recondition, repair, and strengthen hair and nails and to treat nail infections.
As 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, highly beneficial and a “must have” ingredient for beginner and experienced home product makers alike. It works well in soap, creams, lotions, bath and shower gels, and shampoos. Read our blog on using Aloe Vera to create your own bespoke face masks.
Base Formula Team