Aloe Vera has been one of the most popular healing herbs for over three thousand years.  It was used by the ancient Greeks, Egyptians, Romans and others.  Aloe is a family of desert plants with over 200 varieties, but aloe vera is the one most used in healing.
    Externally, aloe is used to soothe cuts, wounds, burns and insect bites.  It can be used for athlete's foot, warts and other fungal infections.  Aloe very gel is one of the best natural moisturizers.  Cleopatra used it as a skin treatment.  It can aid in other skin problems such as psoriasis and shingles.  
    Internally, aloe very is sometimes used for digestive problems and constipation, although herbologists generally don't recommend it for constipation because it can be harsh on the body and too effective so other herbs are recommended instead.
    One recent study found aloe can increase immune cell growth in rats that have had their immune system damaged by radiation.  This has led to it being studied as a treatment for AIDS.  Some recent studies with treating those who have HIV have shown that after taking aloe for a while, the virus is reduced to the point where it becomes undetectable.  Another study by a dental school found it effective in healing oral ulcers.  The National Cancer Institute has recommended further studies of aloe as it appears to aid in fighting a number of cancers.
    Today, Aloe Vera gel is used in many commercial products including skin creams, moisturizers and sunburn treatments though many herbologists say the raw fresh gel is best because it loses effectiveness over time once it's removed from the plant.