Medicinal-grade honey or propolis: Honey and propolis, a resin-like substance collected by bees, have been used for their potential antiviral and wound-healing properties. Applying medicinal-grade honey or propolis directly to cold sores may help reduce symptoms, accelerate healing, and prevent the growth of the herpes virus. Manage herpes outbreaks of both the oral and genital varieties by applying aloe vera gel. Studies have shown that aloe vera extract in hydrophilic cream was effective for this purpose. The topical application of herbal preparations containing fresh aloe vera has been shown to boost hair growth in one study. 20 We updated this article in July 2023 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive research done by our team.

Aloe vera can help hands which have been ravaged by exposure to external irritants such as hand sanitiser. This is my favourite of the products that I have tried from this range! It’s a huge tub of body scrub with walnut shell. Furthermore, aloe vera can prevent the production of histamine that causes itching andirritation. 12 Apply the lotion every day, to the whole body, gently massaging until absorbed. It can be used as often as required.

So what about aloe in skincare? Is this still effective or should we be looking for pure gels only? Grant suggests that for those who require constant soothing (such as after a sunburn), applying pure gel, like the nearly 100% aloe vera gel by Badger is a great solution as the skin will receive the direct benefits in the most potent form. As it heals the skin, itching is soothed, redness is minimized, and hydration is replenished. If you’re taking any medication orally, remember aloe vera’s a laxative. Diarrhoea can reduce the absorption of the medication.

Take orally to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides for a healthy heart. At least one study has shown that taking an aloe vera supplement reduced cholesterol levels.Read the ingredients: Make sure the first ingredient on your bottle’s label reads as “aloe vera gel” and don’t buy anything with “aloe latex”—a laxative that may be carcinogenic. Some aloe vera gels also contain the pain-relieving ingredient lidocaine, but you’re better off buying one that doesn’t contain additives (including alcohol, fragrance, or color) to reduce the risk of irritation, says Dr. Saedi. That means your aloe should be clear—not green. Aloe vera is available as tablets, capsules, gels, and ointments. You can also sometimes find it in health drinks, as an ingredient in cosmetic products and in hand sanitisers. Eating aloe vera