Aloe Vera for Minor Burns

Aloe barbadensis

There are 180 species of aloe, a member of the lily family. Aloe is thought to have grown mainly in North Africa and the Mediterranean region before spreading to other parts of the world. Aloe's healing reputation stems from the clear gel in its leaves. The scientific data supporting the use of aloe for burns is sparse but there is some data supporting aloe's ability to promote the healing of first and second-degree burns.

Aloe vera as a burn remedy

Method

Aloe vera gel can be applied directly to the skin. If you are using fresh aloe leaves, you should first drain the yellow latex layer that sits between the skin and the gel. To harvest fresh aloe:

• Remove a whole aloe leaf from the plant. Take an outer leaf and remove it as near the trunk as possible.
• Cut a slit down the middle and allow the yellow latex to drain. The latex has other uses but is not good for irritated skin and might cause inflammation in some people.
• If you want to use the aloe immediately, use a serrated knife to remove the thick skin. This will take some practice but after a few tries you will be able to remove the skin and end up with a nice thick piece of gel. and rinse the gel under cold water.
• If you are using aloe arborescens, it is not necessary to drain the leaves. You can open the leaf and apply the gel directly.
• Cut a piece of the gel and apply it directly to the skin as needed, avoiding the eyes..
• The gel will keep for about a week if stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Why It Works

Aloe is an anti-inflammatory and a pain reliever. It also is thought to help the dead skins to fall off and to promote the growth of new skin cells. Aloe may also open the pores, allowing the skin to soak up the moisture in aloe gel up to four times faster than it would soak up ordinary water.

Precautions

Some people are allergic to aloe and may develop a skin rash or irritation, or may have an anaphylactic reaction. If you have a large burn (greater than 3 inches in diameter) or experience a pain and blistering, please consult a doctor.

More Remedies

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