Aloe also holds the prestigious title of being the 6th most-used plant - its properties are found in numerous medical and health products around the world.

A versatile plant, you can find aloe in beverages, cosmetics, and herbal products. One of the reasons that Aloe is so effective is its bioactive components called chromones. It is also one of the only plants in the world that naturally contains Vitamin B12.

Because of its amazing properties, aloe is very beneficial for cuts, wounds, and burns. It can also prevent scaring, fade marks, and help heal acne. Used topically and internally, aloe is a powerful healing ointment.

Aloe also nourishes your skin. In fact, aloe is the answer for almost all skin problems. Skin care specialists have long recognized, and used, aloe in skin care products - it is beneficial for all skin types, including sensitive skin. As a moisturizer, aloe has both conditioning and healing properties.

In addition:

1. Aloe reduces inflammation and pain, and accelerates healing

2. It has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties

3. Aloe vera gel acts as an anesthetic and often relieves joint and muscle pain.

And, if that wasn’t enough... for an easier nights’ sleep try putting an aloe plant in your bedroom! It releases oxygen and absorbs carbon dioxide at night.

If you are interested in growing your own aloe plants, pfaf.org has the following recommendations:

"Aloe requires a well-drained soil and a very sunny position. Plants are tolerant of poor soils. If trying to grow this plant outdoors then it will need the sunniest and warmest area in the garden plus some protection from winter cold (a glass frame perhaps). This species is not very cold-hardy outdoors in Britain, it is best grown in a pot placed outdoors in the summer and put in a greenhouse for the winter. It grows very well in a sunny windowsill."

There are plenty of uses for the Aloe Vera plant, and many of its uses may surprise you. The bottom line is aloe is one of the best natural cures available.