Summary:
Wound healing is a complex biological process essential for tissue recovery. Skin injuries, caused by burns, arterial diseases, surgery, or trauma, progress through three phases: inflammation, tissue removal, and tissue regeneration. Aloe vera, a plant used medicinally since ancient times, has been extensively studied for its wound healing properties. Originating from tropical regions like Madagascar and Saudi Arabia, Aloe vera belongs to the Liliaceae family. Scientifically, Aloe vera contains 75 identified compounds, including minerals, amino acids, vitamins, and water. Research indicates Aloe vera enhances wound healing, and reduces inflammation, partly due to compounds like glucomannan. Studies have also demonstrated Aloe vera’s ability to increase collagen production, improve skin flexibility, reduce inflammation markers, and aid in skin hydration and integrity. Clinical trials support Aloe vera’s effectiveness in treating various conditions, including psoriasis, ulcers, and burns, due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound healing properties. This systematic review consolidated research findings on Aloe vera’s role in skin wound prevention and healing. A systematic search of multiple databases identified 23 relevant clinical trials from 1990 to 2016. Results consistently show Aloe vera’s utility in preventing skin ulcers and treating conditions such as burns, genital herpes, and chronic wounds. In conclusion, Aloe vera offers a complementary approach to enhance wound healing and maintain skin health alongside conventional treatments. Its widespread use in cosmetics underscores its popularity and potential societal health benefits.
Abstract:
Background:: Aloe vera is an herbaceous and perennial plant that belongs to the Liliaceae family and used for many medicinal purposes. The present study aimed to systematically review clinical trials regarding the effect of Aloe vera on the prevention and healing of skin wounds. Methods: To identify all related published studies, we searched SID, IRANDOC, Google Scholar, PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and ScienceDirect databases in both the English and Persian languages from 1990 to 2016. The keywords used were Aloe vera, wound healing, and prevention. All clinical trials using Aloe vera gel, cream, or derivatives that included a control group with placebo or comparison with other treatments were included in the study. The PRISMA checklist (2009) was used to conduct the review. Results: In total, 23 trials that met the inclusion criteria were studied. The results of the studies showed that Aloe vera has been used to prevent skin ulcers and to treat burn wounds, postoperative wounds, cracked nipples, genital herpes, psoriasis, and chronic wounds including pressure ulcers. Conclusion: Considering the properties of Aloe vera and its compounds, it can be used to retain skin moisture and integrity and to prevent ulcers. It seems that the application of Aloe vera, as a complementary treatment along with current methods, can improve wound healing and promote the health of society.
Article Publication Date: 01/2019
DOI: PMID: 30666070
