Aloe Vera and Cancer

There isn't any clear link between the use of aloe vera and cancer treatment, based on available information.

Aloe vera gel is widely used to treat various skin conditions. Some cancer patients, too, use aloe vera to heal and soothe burns caused during radiotherapy treatment.

Currently, there is no conclusive evidence or research to prove that aloe vera can help with burns caused by radiotherapy treatment. However, many cancer patients who diligently use aloe vera gel have experienced immense relief as it helped to heal their skin. Also, there is certainly some definitive evidence to support aloe vera's use for minor skin problems and burns. Many specialist nurses and radiotherapists also recommend its use.

A few cancer patients continue to use aloe vera capsules, injections or aloe vera drinks in an attempt to treat cancer, but there is no very clear evidence, especially empirical proof but also anecdotal information, to safely suggest or conclude that these aloe vera injections or capsules help in treating cancer.

It is therefore not recommended that one relys solely or too greatly on the use of aloe vera in treating or fighting one's cancer. In fact, this applies to any herb or remedy - against any chronic degenerative diseases, and especially one such as cancer which is especially multi causal and difficult to understand, a broad based and holistic approach should always be taken.

Do note that the lack of research into the link between aloe vera and cancer does not in any way indicate that aloe vera is not safe on your skin. In fact, aloe vera gel most certainly helps soften the skin around wounds and prevents dryness as the wound heals.

In some promising research revealing some possible headway into the link between aloe vera and cancer, some laboratory studies have indicated that a substance present in aloe vera leaves (aloe emodin) can block the growth of cancer cells in test tubes. However, this has not been shown in human trials and it is going to take some more time before becoming a useful treatment for cancer. Much more research is necessary before we can establish the direct health benefit of aloe vera in preventing, treating, or curing any type of cancer.

Indirectly though, we already know that aloe vera is useful in detoxifying the body, strengthening the immune system and promoting healing. In addition, it is also a nutritious herb. These properties are definitely useful in one's battle against chronic disease, including cancer. Thus, there is no harm, and in fact a lot of potential benefit, in adding aloe vera to one's health crusade.

Aloe Vera Pages | History of Aloe Vera | Other Information and Facts on Aloe Vera | Methods of Aloe Vera Uses - Routes of Administration | External Uses of Aloe Vera | Medicinal Uses of Aloe Vera - Health Benefits of Aloe Vera | Benefits of Aloe Vera Gel - aloe vera gel facts | Aloe Vera Research and Studies | Aloe Vera and Cancer | Aloe Vera Side Effects, Caution and Contraindications

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