The aloe vera plant has long been known for its soothing healing qualities for sun burn pain. It’s also been used in vitamins and moisturizers and even as a houseplant.

Aloe is a plant genus belonging to the Asphodelaceae family, its cousins are onions and asparagus. The Aloe grows naturally in Africa, and other family members are popular houseplants found around the world. The most famous member of the genus though is Aloe Vera

Known for its Medicinal Uses and Applications

The most frequent use of the aloe plant is as a topical gel. Gels made from Aloe Vera are used to treat burns and minor scrapes and it’s benefits range from soothing inflammation, pain relief, and a reduction in possible infection. Studies show that regular use of an Aloe Vera based gel will actually speed the healing process in minor wounds, and even severe burns. Its use has been chronicled for hundreds of years. The thick leaves can be snapped open, and the moist open ends of the leave can be rubbed directly onto a burn or scrape directly.

I always keep some aloe vera growing at the nursery for those quick first aid needs.

The moisture form the Aloe leaves are extracted from plants grow on large aloe plantation farms and made into the popular gel most people are familiar with. It’s become popular with advertising finding its way into skin lotions, cosmetic products, shampoos, lip balms, soaps and sunscreens. The benefits of Aloe Vera include its strong moisturizing capacity, and its extract contains a number of vitamins and minerals believed to promote healthy skin. Another benefit is it being a very gentle substance, so Aloe Vera can be used in sensitive areas, such as around the eyes.

Aloe Used Internally Too!

Aloe plants, also are used for internal medicinal use and primarily as a laxative. The juice from aloe can be dried into a dark powder composed of yellowish granules which taste quite bitter. Internal use of Aloe is sold as a treatment for coughs, ulcers, muscle pain, headaches, and even cancer and HIV. The only proven benefit aloe offers for in internal use is the relief of constipation. Even in this use, internal use of the plant has a number of side effects, can cause nausea, and should not be taken by women who may be pregnant.

There is a lot of hype and mystery surrounding the Aloe genus, especially its most popular member Aloe Vera. Clearly, many Aloe Vera benefits are proven, especially the ones involved in external use and in skin care. Its benefits for internal use are somewhat dubious, however.

Growing aloe vera as a houseplant is easy. Put the plant in as much light possible. They grow great in xeriscape and rock gardens - I grow mine in full sun. Use a well draining soil and easy on the water. I’ve always found aloe easy to grow and a great partner to have around for cut and burns.