Nature's Band Aid - Aloe Vera Effects - Why Having an Aloe Vera Plant Around Is a Good Idea

Aloe Vera is a succulent plant that is believed to have originated in Northern Africa, Cape Verde, and the Canary islands, according to Wikipedia. It grows naturally in arid climates, and being a succulent (cactus-like), it doesn't tolerate frost or freezing conditions.

But that makes it perfect for an indoor house plant. Besides being an attractive addition to your indoor garden, it's easy to maintain, and it's always handy for those quick medicinal uses.

Aloe Vera Exudes Two Fluids
Each one with varying effects. When you slice a tip of the Aloe Vera leave, over time, it will seal and heal itself efficiently. When you squeeze this "leaf," you'll experience a yellow-green sap. You'll find this portion of the fluid to be an irritant. But this portion of the plant contains the latex-like compound, aloin – which is what helps to "seal" the plant. This is the part of the plant that is extracted for "oral" consumption.

The transparent fluid that comes from the "inner leaf" is more like a thick clear gel. This is the part of the plant that is great for minor cuts and abrasions. When it is crushed or cut, and its soothing gel applied directly to the wound, you'll get immediate relief for that burn or skin irritation. It also acts as an "invisible bandage" – this is what makes it great for promoting healing. I call it Nature's Band Aid, a name someone else may have given it, but it stuck with me.

Be sure to read below so you're clear on what parts of the plant to use where, or you could be experiencing some "skin" irritation. This information comes to us from the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, National Institutes for Health:

What Can Aloe Be Used For Externally?

• Heal skin wounds
• Soothe burns
• Soothe conditions of osteoarthritis
• Provide relief for itching, like poison oak or ivy.

How About Internal Uses?

• As a laxative, however, you won't find it packaged that way because the FDC removed OTC Aloe Vera laxatives because the companies producing the product didn't provide enough safety data.
• Reducing stomach acid, also know to aid in the healing of ulcers and gastritis
• Treatment for Asthma
• Treatment for Epilepsy
• Treatment for Osteoarthritis (topically and orally)

Side Effects

• Oral use of Aloe Vera has been known to cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea in some people.
• Diabetics taking glucose-lowering medication should note that Aloe Vera is also known for lower blood glucose levels – don't mix the two
• Diarrhea caused by Aloe Vera can decrease the ability of the body to absorb other prescribed or OTC medications.
• Be sure to let your health care providers know of all the alternative medical practices you use, especially if you are ingesting something. There can be multiple side effects if mixing natural remedies with prescribed medications; it's better to err on the safe side.