Remedy · herb

Aloe vera (topical)

Also: Aloe barbadensis, aloe gel

The leaf gel has trial support for speeding the healing of minor burns.

Evidence by condition

Each grade reflects the research for Aloe vera (topical) and that condition specifically.

B
Minor burns
Topical gel shortens second-degree burn healing time by ~4 days versus comparators, with no rise in infection risk; pooled trials are few and of limited quality.
1 citation
- Effects of Aloe vera on Burn Injuries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
  Meta-analysis 2024 · Journal of Burn Care & Research · PMID 38605441

This entry is about the clear topical gel for minor burns — not oral aloe latex, which is a stimulant laxative best avoided. For small, shallow burns, aloe gel is a reasonable adjunct to proper first aid; serious burns need medical care.

What researchers studied

These describe how the remedy was used in studies — not a dose or a recommendation.

Form studied: topical aloe gel
Amounts in trials: applied to the burn in trials (vs dressings such as silver sulfadiazine)

Safety

Caution in pregnancy

Contraindications: oral aloe latex (leaf rind) is a harsh laxative and possible carcinogen — avoid, especially in pregnancy
Side effects: occasional contact dermatitis or allergy from the topical gel

Safety data is not exhaustive. Always check with a clinician or pharmacist before combining remedies or medications.

Tradition vs. evidence

Traditional use is context, not proof. Here is what older systems claim, and how modern research treats it.

AyurvedaEvidence aligns
Long used as a topical remedy for burns and wounds.