Herb Notes: The Medicinal Benefits of Aloe vera

Welcome to Herb Notes, I'm Tara Ruth with Learning Herbs. Most people are familiar with aloe vera as an undemanding houseplant that can be called upon in times of sunburn. And while it is true that the inner fillet of aloe is one of our go-to plant allies for mild sunburns, this plant also offers so many more healing gifts. So, let's dive into three key health benefits of aloe. 1. Aloe vera's inner fillet can soothe inflamed mucous membranes. The mucilaginous gel of aloe's inner fillet is cooling and moistening and can soothe irritated tissues in both the digestive and respiratory tract. I often call on aloe's soothing gel for acid reflux, sore throat, and dry cough. 2. Aloe vera's inner fillet is an immunomodulator. This means that aloe gel can potentially help bring greater balance to the immune system when it's over or underactive. Plus, the fresh gel, and fresh is the key here, also demonstrates some antibacterial and antifungal activity. 3. Aloe vera's inner fillet can soothe skin inflammation. Whether it's from a mild sunburn, acne, or eczema, topical aloe gel has an affinity for soothing minor, dry, red, inflamed skin, potentially reducing pain and promoting tissue repair. If applying to a sunburn, the aloe tends to work most effectively when applied immediately after the burn occurs. And when tending cuts or broken skin, it's important to only use the fresh aloe gel because the store-bought preparations can encourage staphylococcus bacteria. So to recap, here are three ways I like to work with the inner fillet of aloe. 1. I ingest aloe gel to soothe my mucous membranes in my GI and respiratory tracts. 2. I work with aloe gel as an immunomodulator to help balance my immune system. 3. I apply aloe gel topically to mild sunburns, eczema, and other inflamed skin issues to soothe my skin and promote tissue repair. And right now, you might be wondering why I keep saying the inner fillet of aloe. That's because the inner fillet and the outer leaf of aloe have super different properties. While the inner fillet has a mild taste and is soothing and hydrating for the body, the outer leaf is super bitter and is an incredibly strong laxative that can have some undesired effects. So that's why we're sticking with the gentle, soothing aloe inner fillet in this herb note. And if you want to learn more about aloe's benefits, you can visit herbnotes.cards to grab a free deck of our top 12 herb notes. You'll learn all about common herbs like aloe, garlic, echinacea, cinnamon, and more. This has been Herb Notes with me, Tara Ruth. Catch you next time!