Scientific evidence for the cosmetic and therapeutic effectiveness of aloe vera is limited and when present is frequently contradictory. Despite this, the cosmetic and alternative medicine industries regularly make claims regarding the soothing, moisturizing, and healing properties of aloe vera commercially advertised mainly for skin conditions such as sunburns, cold sores and frostbite. Aloe vera gel is also used commercially as an ingredient in yogurts, beverages, and some desserts; although at certain doses, its toxic properties could be severe whether ingested or topically applied.The same is true for the use of aloe latex - which can also be either topically applied or ingested. Nonetheless, its power in aiding with the regulation of bowels, epilepsy, depression, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, glaucoma, and a host of other ailments remains beneficial to humans.Other uses for extracts of Aloe vera include the dilution of semen for the artificial fertilization of sheep, as a fresh food preservative, or for water conservation in small farms. It has also been suggested that biofuels could be obtained from Aloe vera seeds. Aloe is also used as a food substance, possibly for its gelling properties.
