Aloe vera, otherwise know as aloe barbadensis, has many different healing benefits, but is primarily known for the effects it has on the skin. Aloe vera has anti bacterial, anti viral, anti inflammatory and anti parasidic properties. These all help to cleanse a wound, relieve pain and inflammation and ultimately heal the wound. It has been used on the skin for sunburns, cuts, eczema, poison ivy, insect bites, acne, chicken pox, hives, radiation and other burns. An aloe vera plant can actual heal itself. It has a growth stimulator, which helps to regenerate new tissue. If you cut part of the leaf from the plant, it doesn't take long before you will see a thin barrier forming, thus healing itself. I've seen small ready to apply "patches" made of aloe vera in a pharmaceutical store that you can use to put on small minor burns immediately to help start the healing process and prevent scarring.

The anti inflammatory properties of A.V. have been used to help with arthritis and joint related problems, inflamed muscles, inflamed intestinal and bowel disorders such as IBS, ulcers, Crohn's disease, hemorrhoids, colitis and more.

Aloe vera has a soothing and alkalizing effect on the inside of the body helping people with over acidity, heartburn, ulcers, intestinal and digestive disorders as previously mentioned.

Because of it's anti bacterial, anti viral and anti parasidic properties, A.V. has been known to help people with Candida and yeast infections, herpes and other viral diseases, parasites, cleansing of the colon, and some bacterial and viral infections.

It has also been know to increase protein absorption, regulate blood sugar levels, support the immune system and even help with low energy and chronic fatigue.

A.V. also contains many vitamins, minerals, some essential oils, enzymes, amino acids and glyco proteins. Is there anything it do? With so many health benefits, it's a wonder everyone isn't drinking aloe vera juice or taking capsules full of the dried herb.

If you know anyone with any of the problems or ailments listed above, who hasn't been able to find suitable relief elsewhere, you may want to advise them of the health benefits listed here. I'm sure they'll thank you.

One quick piece of advice, whether you take it in capsule or liquid form, be sure to start out slow. If you take too much aloe vera, it can have a laxative effect.