The Healing Plant Called Aloe Vera

As a native Floridian, I have had and seen my fair share of sunburns. When hosting guests, we always suggest for them to be careful in the Florida sun because just a few minutes in direct sunlight can cause a hurtful sunburn, especially for those not used to it. They’ll often say, “We’re out in the sun all the time at home and have never gotten burned like this before.” This is because Florida is closer to the equator making the heat from the sun more intense. One way to be careful is to check the heat index on a weather app.

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As a kid I can remember my mom keeping a bottle of green Aloe Vera gel in our refrigerator which I now do for my family. This is a must have for Florida sunburns or any type of burn really and can be found at most stores. 

However, I have also found the amazing soothing therapy that comes from a real aloe plant like the one pictured above. These plants are inexpensive and do not require much care when planted in your yard. 

When needed, simply cut a branch of the aloe plant & put it in the refrigerator. The colder the aloe gel, the more the relief. Make a slice down the middle of the stem and the gel can be put directly onto the burn using your finger or a cotton swab. 

What an aloe plant does:

• Soothes the burn naturally  

• Because there are no additives, it is pure aloe speeding up the healing time and intensifying the comfort.

• Adds a protective layer on the skin to provide protection from further damage.

Recently I used an aloe plant to treat a bad burn and I was amazed at the recovery time and the way it prevented bad scaring. It makes me think of how God ministers healing into our wounds and how we can help others by pointing them to Jesus. It's like the story in the Bible of the Good Samaritan who helped the injured man on the side of the road when he "bound up his wounds, pouring in oil...and took care of him." 

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When I think of the difference between using the real aloe plant versus store-bought aloe, I think of how there are many imitations to real joy and happiness. While some pleasures or people may come close, nothing is as comforting as knowing we have a Heavenly Father who ministers His healing balm to the hurt, pain and challenges of this life like only He can do.

God promises in Psalm 147:3 that "He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds." He is the "Balm of Gilead." We need to go to God for healing. There is a beloved song about this healing that can be found in Jesus Christ: 

There is a balm in Gilead

To make the wounded whole;

There is a balm in Gilead

To heal the sin-sick soul.

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Jesus is the Balm of Gilead. You will be amazed at how God can heal your wounds and put you back together if you give Him all the pieces.

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Things to know about an aloe plant:

Caution: As you can see in the picture, the stems are prickly so you will need to use caution when handling them.

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Disclaimer: As always we want to state that we are not doctors and are not seeking to give medical advice. We recommend for you to consult a doctor before administering or treating burns, especially if you have any known allergies or sensitive skin. 

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