There are hundreds of varieties of aloe that grow all over the world. Most have medicinal properties. However, it is aloe barbadensis that is known as aloe vera, the species with the most value as a natural remedy. Aloe arborescens, the fast growing aloe with spiraling leaves, is more common as a houseplant and wild succulent in North America and its gel has healing properties as well but it is less powerful than aloe barbadensis.
Aloe vera as an acne remedy
The gel of the aloe vera plant has a cooling, soothing effect on acne sores. It is also a natural antibiotic.
Method
- Remove a whole aloe leaf from the plant. Take an outer leaf and remove it as near the trunk as possible.
- Cut a slit down the middle and allow the yellow latex to drain. The latex has other uses but is not good for irritated skin and might cause inflammation in some people.
- If you want to use the aloe immediately, use a serrated knife to remove the thick skin. This will take some practice but after a few tries you will be able to remove the skin and end up with a nice thick piece of gel. and rinse the gel under cold water.
- If you are using aloe arborescens, it is not necessary to drain the leaves. You can open the leaf and apply the gel directly.
- Cut a piece of the gel and apply it directly to the skin as needed, avoiding the eyes..
- The gel will keep for about a week if stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Why It Works
Aloe vera gel is good for acne for two main reasons. First, it immediately soothes the skin and is a mild anti-inflammatory. Secondly, aloe vera is a natural antibiotic - it cleans the skin and kills bacteria.
Precautions
As mentioned above, the yellow latex of aloe barbadensis, a thin layer between the leaf and the gel, is a potential skin irritant.
source:
http://www.grannymed.com/remedies/conditions/acne/aloe-vera-for-acne
