How to Use Aloe Vera for Sunburn and Its Health Benefits

Since centuries, people have used plants as medicine to treat ailments and promote health. Aloe vera does not need an introduction; it has been used for at least 4000 years for its medicinal value and therapeutic benefits. Today it is widely used and cultivated in many countries throughout the world. Aloe Vera for sunburn is one of the most effective remedies nature has gifted us.

The clear gel found in the inner layer of the leaf of the aloe plant is commonly used to relieve burns and heal wounds. It is the thick and sticky gel, found in the leaves of aloe that are packed with compounds having various health benefits. Lectins (proteins) present in the gel act as a powerful anti inflammatory agent for relieving sunburn symptoms. The chemical saponin gives aloe its antiseptic properties. The gel is readily absorbed thorough all the three layers of the skin. The gel contains lot of water to hydrate and keep the skin moisturized when there is sunburn.

How to Use Aloe Vera for Sunburn

You can use fresh aloe Vera extract from the cut plant if it is available or alternately you can use the readymade gel available in the stores.

However the fresh gel extracted from the leaves is more effective. Break of the leaf from the plant and slice it from the middle with a sharp knife.  Apply the thick gel from the leaf on the sunburn. Wrap it with gauze to secure it into the place. The skin will soon soak up the gel as it soothes the affected area. You can apply the gel for two to three times in a day to enhance the healing. As aloe Vera extract or the juice is slightly astringent, you can add vitamin E to the juice or the gel and dab it on the sunburn. Break a capsule of vitamin E and add the content in the juice and dab the sunburn to alleviate the symptoms.

Benefits of Aloe Vera

The plant extract can be used in the gel form or it can be used as a juice.

Besides sunburn, aloe Vera is beneficial in many other conditions such as:

• The juice has the properties of reducing cholesterol content in the blood.
• It contains salicylic acid and magnesium which work together to produce an aspirin like analgesic and anti inflammatory effect. This quality of aloe Vera is used for treating arthritis pain.
• It is used in cosmetics and facial products because it helps to balance the pH of the skin.
• Aloe juice helps to improve digestion.
• Aloe vera juice is also used to treat constipation.
• The mucopolysaccharides found in the aloe plant are known to stimulate the immune system. It is helpful in those suffering from cancer.
• It is also useful in healing the radiation burns in patients suffering from cancer.
• It keeps the skin well hydrated.
• The anti viral activity of aloe vera is useful in enhancing the effect of other medicines in fighting HIV and AIDS.