By itself, aloe oil is not a true, pure oil. It is prepared by mixing the aloe vera plant with a fatty oil. This plant oil contains the properties of aloe, from which it is extracted. However, since it is combined with a carrier oil, its nutritional properties may be enhanced or reduced.
Most of the health benefits provided by aloe vera come from its water-retaining, fleshy leaves — specifically the nutrient-rich gel extracted from them. It is usually the leaves or gel that is used to create the oil.
Aloe vera is a perennial plant and thrives in hot, arid environments. More specifically, it is commonly found in North Africa, the Canary Islands, the Mediterranean region, Australia, and some areas in the United States. Historical records show that aloe vera was an important component in herbal medicine. For instance, the Ebers Papyrus from Ancient Egypt and “De Materia Medica” by Dioscorides mention the use of aloe vera.
The Ancient Egyptians valued the plant as a treatment for infections, rashes, and burns, and referred to it as the “plant of immortality.” Other civilizations, such as the Arabs, Greeks, and Spaniards, used aloe vera to help reduce perspiration and eliminate body odor. Spanish missionaries often carried aloe vera with them to help treat the sick.
Uses of Aloe Vera Oil
Aloe vera is commonly used by the cosmetic, food, and beverage industry. It is widely used in personal care products, such as lip balms, lotions, and other skincare treatments. Of course, the aloe vera plant by itself is also a popular skincare agent. Some people use its gel to relieve itching, accelerate the healing of wounds, and as a moisturizing agent. Other uses of aloe vera oil include:
- Massage oil — due to its ability to relieve pain and inflammation.
- Aromatherapy oil — Aromatherapists often mix aloe vera oil with other carrier oils in order to make use of its healing and rejuvenating activities.
- Haircare product — It can be used as a conditioner to help treat dry scalp and dandruff.
- Treatment for insect bites — This plant oil can also be used to help treat swelling and inflammation caused by insect bites from bees and wasps.
- Dental care product — Nutrients in aloe vera have been found to aid in the treatment of periodontal disease. Used as a massage oil for the gums and teeth, this oil can help reduce the risk of caries, plaque, and even gingivitis.
Composition of Aloe Oil
Many of the beneficial compounds of aloe vera gel are transferred to the oil during its production stage. Nutrients you can obtain from the gel and oil include:
- Vitamins C, A (beta-carotene), E (alpha-tocopherol), B1, B2, and B6 (choline and folic acid)
- Minerals — The aloe vera plant is known to absorb nutrients from the soil. It can provide iron, copper, magnesium, calcium, manganese, sodium, and potassium
- Amino acids — There are 20 amino acids in aloe oil, as well as 7 out of 8 essential amino acids
- Anthraquinones — such as aloe-emodin, aloin, and cinnamic acid ester. These have been shown to have antiviral effects
- Lipid compounds — such as arachidonic acid, gamma-linoleic acid, and other phytosterols
- Polysaccharides — which are carbohydrate molecules with beneficial properties. They have been associated with the potential treatment of tumors and cancer, diabetes, and immune function