How To Use Aloe Vera on Wounds in the Need of Healing.

By definition, a bandage or cure is a compress placed on a wound to help it heal quickly and prevent it from becoming infected.  Aloe vera gel has this same characteristic: the application of an aloe cure on a wound allows indeed to accelerate its healing. Let us see how this active ingredient acts.

First, it has healing properties. According to a recent study, acemannan, a polysaccharide present in aloe vera gel, considerably accelerates wound closure and cell proliferation. This is possible by activating the ATK/mTOR signaling pathway, which is involved in the development of new capillaries (angiogenesis). The production of collagen and glycosaminoglycans is also increased. These molecules belong to the extracellular matrix of the skin and contribute to its structure. Moreover, aloe vera gel also contains glucomannan, another polysaccharide essential to healing. This molecule acts on the fibroblast growth factor, TGF-β1, which increases their activity. The secretion of elastin and collagen by the fibroblasts is thus amplified.

In addition, aloe vera gel is moisturizing due to its composition rich in polysaccharides and hygroscopic amino acids. Just after being injured, a wound tends to be red and painful: the skin can burn, itch or pull. It is then necessary to moisturize it well so that it can heal correctly. Aloe vera will moisturize the area to soothe it, and reduce pain and itching.

Finally, aloe vera gel also has anti-inflammatory properties that come from its ability to inhibit the production of TNF-α and interleukin 6, pro-inflammatory cytokines. TNF-α is targeted by certain flavonoids such as quercetin and Kaempferol contained in aloe vera gel, and then sees its activity inhibited.

Pure aloe vera gel can be applied directly to a wound to soothe pain and promote healing. It is also possible to soak a compress in it and then apply it to the wound. The application of aloe vera gel can be repeated several times a day as needed.

You can use either a commercial gel or a gel from a houseplant. When extracting the gel, the latter should not be confused with aloe vera latex, which is yellow-brownish and contains molecules that are potentially allergenic when applied topically, due to the presence of anthraquinones.

Note: Although an aloe cure can soothe minor wounds, it is necessary to consult a health professional in case of serious injury or if the wound becomes infected or shows no sign of improvement after a few days.