What is Aloe Vera and How Can It Aid Psoriasis!

On behalf of World Psoriasis Day on October 29th, we wanted to give you some insight into ways aloe vera can help! Aloe vera grows in hot, dry climates around the world. With its thick, succulent leaves, this herb has been used for centuries by ancient cultures. Historically, aloe has been used for constipation, colic, skin diseases, worm infestation, type 2 diabetes, and infections. 

 Soothing Properties

Aloe vera's ability to soothe and heal skin is widely known. When used for burns, it may speed healing as well as reduce pain. Aloe may also help shorten wound healing time, though this is controversial. It also may support those with skin diseases like herpes simplex, lichen planus, or psoriasis. Aloe gel, when taken internally, may even be helpful for inflammatory bowel diseases.

 How Aloe Vera Aids in Psoriasis

Aloe vera is commonly used as a natural remedy for psoriasis due to its anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and skin-soothing properties. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition characterized by rapid skin cell turnover, leading to red, scaly patches. Aloe vera can help manage some of the symptoms by:

1. Reducing Inflammation: Aloe vera contains compounds like glycoproteins and polysaccharides that help reduce inflammation, which is a key issue in psoriasis. This can soothe flare-ups and reduce redness and swelling on the skin.
2. Moisturizing the Skin: One of the primary challenges with psoriasis is that the skin becomes dry and prone to cracking. Aloe vera has a high water content and can deeply moisturize the skin, preventing further irritation and promoting healing.
3. Healing Wounds: Aloe vera has been shown to promote wound healing and skin repair, which is especially beneficial for psoriasis patients whose skin can crack or peel during flare-ups. It contains vitamins like vitamin C and vitamin E, which are known to support skin regeneration.
4. Soothing the Skin: Aloe vera’s cooling and soothing properties can help reduce the discomfort, itchiness, and burning sensations often associated with psoriasis patches.

 Application

Aloe vera gel can be applied directly to the affected skin, usually two to three times a day, to moisturize and soothe psoriasis-affected areas. However, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test before applying it widely, as some individuals may experience irritation or allergic reactions.

Aloe vera is available in most grocery, pharmacy, and health food stores. Used topically, aloe gel is generally well-tolerated though it can, rarely, cause burning, itching, and eczema. Internally, be sure to buy pure, drinkable aloe vera gel without latex. This is different from the kind used on skin for burns. Ingesting oral aloe latex is not recommended as it can cause abdominal pain and cramps due to its laxative effects. There have been reports of acute liver inflammation when consuming aloe extracts.

  Products For Skin Relief, Psoriasis Symptoms, and More:

• Results RNA ACS 200 Silver-Glutathione Gel Extra Strength (4 oz): This soothing, antioxidant-rich gel combines advanced cellular silver and glutathione to support skin health. It is designed to provide relief from skin conditions like sunburns, eczema, and cuts while promoting skin rejuvenation and wound healing.
• NET Remedies #2 Metal (60 ml Oral Liquid): This homeopathic remedy is designed to help detoxify heavy metals from the body, offering support for those exposed to environmental toxins.
• MediNatura BHI Skin Relief (100 tablets): These homeopathic tablets provide relief from common skin issues such as rashes, eczema, itching, and redness. The formula works by supporting the body’s natural healing processes to soothe irritated skin​.
• Med-Chem Laboratories Epi-Shield (4 oz jar): Epi-Shield is a topical skin protectant formulated to support the healing of wounds and skin irritations. It's designed to create a barrier on the skin, helping with recovery from cuts, burns, and other minor injuries​.
• Nordic Naturals ProEPA with Concentrated GLA (Lemon, 60 softgels): This supplement provides a concentrated dose of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA, and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which support heart health, cognitive function, and a balanced inflammatory response. It’s flavored with lemon to reduce fishy aftertaste​.
• Ortho Molecular Orthomega Liquid Fish Oil (Mango, 5.07 fl oz): A high-potency liquid fish oil supplement that delivers a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) to support cardiovascular, brain, and joint health. The mango flavor makes it more palatable, especially for those who prefer liquid supplements.

Lastly, while aloe vera may not cure psoriasis, it can provide significant relief from its symptoms by moisturizing the skin, reducing inflammation, and soothing irritation.

 Further Reading

• International Federation of Psoriasis Associations
• National Psoriasis Action Month
• Managing Winter Dryness and Psoriasis