Benefits of Aloe Plants

I was recently gifted an aloe plant from my neighbor, who swears that it is great for burns. After a little kitchen accident where I ended up with a burned finger, I broke off a stem of the plant. It smelled really bad! Is this normal or is something wrong with my plant?

Complaints about smelly aloe plants are not unusual. Providing that you do not have root rot, it is perfectly normal that an aloe plant has a strong scent. Well respected medical research institutions, such as Mayo Clinic, acknowledge the medicinal purposes of the aloe plant. The pulp is relatively runny and sometimes smells foul, however it has been known to improve burns and rashes and other skin conditions. Interestingly, it is the aloe’s other medicinal purpose that has it held in such regard in more primitive Nations. The latex portion of the plant is often used as an oral laxative in locations that depend largely on herbal medications. Some experts believe that the risks associated with using the plant for an oral laxative is more risky than productive because it may be harmful to humans. Some herbalists believe that consuming aloe as a part of the diet can be beneficial. It is best to consult with a physician before consuming any plant or herb for medical benefit and poison control for safety concerns. As far as the smell goes, it appears to be the downside of an otherwise helpful plant.