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aloe vera is a herb or shrub
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #23339
23 days ago
54

aloe vera is a herb or shrub - #23339

Aryan

I am really confused about something that keeps popping up in my searches. For the past few months, I’ve been looking into natural remedies for my skin because I’ve been dealing with some serious dryness and irritation. Everyone and their mom keeps talking about aloe vera, and I thought it was just this wonder-plant that could solve all my problems. Now, I keep seeing debates about whether aloe vera is a herb or shrub, which honestly just makes me question everything. I mean, how can aloe vera be both things? Should I be treating it like a herb or is it more of a shrub, ya know? My mom used to grow these in our backyard, I remember that, but I can’t recall if she ever called it a herb or a shrub. When I tried using aloe vera gel from the store, it seemed to work like magic for my skin for a bit and then stung like crazy! Is that normal? Should I be looking at different forms of aloe vera, like the raw plant? Should I stick with using it solely as a herb or sap or whatever? Are there actually any potential side effects I should be aware of??? Just feel kinda lost and not sure who to trust on this whole aloe vera is a herb or shrub debate!

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Doctors' responses

Aloe vera is actually a type of succulent, which is closer to a shrub than a herb. Botanically speaking, a shrub is a small to medium-sized perennial woody plant, and herbs typically lack woody stems. Aloe vera is known for its thick, fleshy leaves that contain a gel-like substance used for various skin conditions. Your confusion is quite common because the distinctions between herb and shrub aren’t always clear-cut when it comes to plants used for medicinal purposes. Now, onto the part about your skin. Aloe vera is widely known for its soothing properties thanks to the gel inside its leaves, which contains compounds that can help with skin dryness and irritation. However, the gel can sting if your skin is already irritated, or if you have an allergy or sensitivity to aloe vera. It’s also possible for preservatives or added ingredients in store-bought aloe products to cause a reaction. To test for this, you might want to try using aloe directly from a plant. If you do decide to try using the raw plant, cut a leaf and squeeze out the gel directly, applying a small amount to a small area of skin first to check for any reactions. If your skin responds positively, you can apply it more widely. If irritation occurs, discontinue use and consider consulting a dermatologist. It’s important to be cautious especially if your skin issues are severe or persistent. As it stands, herbal remedies like aloe vera can be a part of your skincare routine, but they shouldn’t replace conventional treatments, particularly if a condition is more serious. Ensure your overall skin routine is suitable for your condition and consider a healthcare provider’s advice tailored specifically for your needs.

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