- Reduction of the inflammation
- Healing of the injury
"Aloe Vera may be the most powerful, non-toxic, plant derived treatment of inflammation and wound healing. Presently, hydrocortisone is most effective for inflammation…However, while inhibiting inflammation, hydrocortisone blocks wound healing” – Prof. Davis
Unlike hydrocortisone, Aloe Vera does both at the same time - it heals while reducing inflammation. Aloe Vera contains natural plant sterols, and the theory is that Aloe acts in a way similar to steroid drugs, but without side effects.
The principal plant sterols in Aloe are Lupeol, b-sisosterol and campesterol, which are powerful anti-inflammatory agents. The most effective is lupeol (37% inflammation reduction capacity). Whole Aloe Gel is found to inhibit bradykininase, an enzyme which breaks down bradykinin which stimulates inflammation.
Salicylic acid is another component which may influence inflammation reduction. A close cousin of aspirin, salicylic acid reduces pain and inhibits the synthesis of some prostaglandin hormones.
There are some suggestions that Aloe Vera has an antihistamine effect.
- The power of aloe – from the inside out