SO DYK
SKIN BARRIER & MOISTURE

Aloe vera

Aloe barbadensis

also known as Aloe, Burn plant, Lily of the desert

Aloe vera — Köhler 1887 botanical illustration

A succulent whose inner leaf gel is widely used topically for burns, sunburn, and skin healing; the outer latex is a powerful but harsh laxative.

  • Topical gel supports minor burn healing
  • Soothes sunburn
  • Topical use for psoriasis support
  • Internal latex (rare use) is a strong laxative
  • Used since ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia
  • Provides polysaccharide acemannan

Active in Acemannan (polysaccharide), Anthraquinones (in latex only), Sterols, Lignins.

Internal use of aloe latex is harsh and not recommended — possible cancer risk with long use
Avoid internal use in pregnancy and nursing
May lower blood sugar — caution with diabetes medication
Use caution with diuretics — potassium loss