Aloe Vera - Galway Independent

Home

Sections

Living

Aloe Vera

Written by Dr. Bhatti

Wednesday, 25 July 2007

The plant aloe vera can be used to accelerate wound healing. The healing powers of aloe vera were known as far back as the ancient Egyptians, who used the plant for healing burns and wounds and as a beauty aid. The first known use of aloe vera as a medicinal compound came in 333 BC. There are about 180 aloe species, some of which are cultivated for ornamental use only.

Aloe vera has also been used for chronic constipation, but it is not recommended as a general laxative. In the 1960s, scientists at Pennsylvania University researched whether aloe vera could be used as an external treatment for minor radiation burns. They found it to be an effective, safe and inexpensive treatment. Scientists do not know exactly how aloe vera works, but it is felt that its effectiveness is due to a polysaccharide that forms a protective and soothing coating when applied to skin or taken internally. If the juice is dried first and then applied it doesn’t give good results.

Aloe vera’s ability to accelerate wound healing was demonstrated in a study by skin specialists after a full face dermabrasion. On one side of the face they used aloe vera and on the other side of the face they used normal oxide gel. The overall wound healing was about 72 hours faster on the side with the aloe vera application. Most popular topical application of aloe vera is in the beauty industry, especially after certain procedures such as epilation or laser treatment.

Scientists think aloe vera possibly improves wound healing by increasing the availability of oxygen and increasing the production of collagen. It should be noted however that there has been some adverse reactions to aloe vera after dermabrasion. It is therefore recommended to ask your skin specialist or doctor before using aloe vera topically or internally for any condition.

Always consult your GP before starting any new regime or self treatment. The contents of this article are for information purposes only and are not intended to prevent, diagnose or cure any medical conditions. Next week’s topic is Echinacea. If you would like a topic covered, contact The Clinic of Complementary and Natural Medicine, Kiltartan House, Forster St., Galway on 091-568804.

Dr H Bhatti is the President of the Association of Naturopathic Practitioners and can be contacted at his clinics at Kiltartan House, Forster Street, Galway on 091-568804 or at The Village Nursing Care Centre, Ballygarriff, Craughwell on 091-777700.

Comments (0) »