From the Guidelines
Aloe vera can be used to help with minor burns, such as small partial-thickness burns, by applying it to the affected area after cooling with running water, as suggested by the 2024 American Heart Association and American Red Cross guidelines for first aid 1. When considering the use of aloe vera for burns, it's essential to prioritize the severity of the burn and the potential for complications. For minor burns, aloe vera can provide cooling relief, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
- The gel from an aloe vera plant or a commercial aloe vera product can soothe the affected area and reduce pain.
- Before application, gently clean the burn with cool water and mild soap, pat dry, then apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel.
- Aloe vera works because it contains compounds like acemannan that have anti-inflammatory properties, and it helps maintain skin moisture while providing a protective barrier. However, for second-degree or more severe burns, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately rather than relying solely on aloe vera, as these burns may require surgical intervention and specialized treatments, as recommended by the American Burn Association 1. Additionally, some people may experience allergic reactions to aloe, so it is essential to discontinue use if irritation occurs. In terms of burn care, cooling of burns with running water is an established and beneficial intervention with little risk of harm, as suggested by a meta-analysis of observational data 1. Overall, while aloe vera can be a useful adjunct in the treatment of minor burns, it is essential to prioritize medical attention for more severe burns and to follow established guidelines for burn care.
From the Research
Aloe Vera and Burn Wounds
- Aloe vera has been traditionally used to treat skin injuries, including burns, due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound healing properties 2.
- The active compounds in aloe vera, such as aloe-emodin, aloin, aloesin, emodin, and acemannan, have been investigated for their pharmacological effects, including anti-cancer action, skin and digestive protective activity, and antimicrobial properties 2.
- Topical antimicrobial agents, including aloe vera, have been used in burn care to prevent and treat burn wound infections 3.
Efficacy of Aloe Vera in Burn Wound Healing
- A systematic review of controlled clinical trials found that aloe vera might be an effective intervention in burn wound healing for first to second degree burns, with a shorter healing time compared to control groups 4.
- However, another systematic review found that there is currently an absence of high quality clinical trial evidence to support the use of aloe vera topical agents or aloe vera dressings as treatments for acute and chronic wounds, including burns 5.
- Aloe vera has been shown to have a promotion effect on wound healing, with its biologically active substances playing important roles in anti-inflammatory response, antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant activity, and immunoregulation effects 6.
Mechanism of Action
- The exact mechanism of action of aloe vera in burn wound healing is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve the activation of cellular pathways that promote wound healing, including the enhancement of collagen synthesis and the inhibition of inflammatory mediators 2, 6.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the effects of aloe vera on burn wound healing and to determine its potential as a treatment for burns 4, 5.