Aloe

Aloe vera is one of the most commonly used medicinal plants, used in folk and traditional medicine for over 2000 years. It is one of more than 400 species of Aloe belonging to Liliaceae family that originated in South Africa. Aloe vera is often referred to as the healing plant. It contains several biologically active constituents, including vitamins, minerals, polysaccharides, amino acids, anthraquinones, enzymes, lignins, saponins, and salicylic acids.

Aloe gel has been used on horses with sunburns and contact hypersensitivity during allergic skin reactions. Aloe vera is used as a digestive aid and externally for minor burns, ringworm, mud fever (scratches), bug bites and sores.

Treatment for Skin Conditions
Topical application of aloe vera gel (3 times a day for one week) was found to be effective in horses with mild cases of ringworm, scratches (mud fever), and contact hypersensitivity.

Wound-healing Properties
Polysaccharides from the aloe vera plant have been found to help promote faster healing of wounds, especially those caused by burns. In Trinidad, locals use aloe vera to help horses with sore joints; they mix the aloe into a paste and apply bandage over the joint as a poultice.

Antibacterial Properties
Aloe vera can assist in inhibiting the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Salmonella typhi.