Potential of Aloe vera in Dermato-cosmetology: An Integrative Appraisal of Unani Therapeutics and Contemporary Biomedical Evidence

Skin disorders are a growing global health burden, often associated with significant physical morbidity and psychosocial impairment. The increasing demand for safe dermatological and cosmetic agents has strengthened interest in natural products with multifunctional properties. Aloe vera is widely used in traditional and modern medicine for skin and hair care due to its broad biological activities. In Unani medicine, Aloe vera (Elwa/Sibr) is an important drug described under Umoor-e-Zeeenat and is traditionally indicated for inflammatory, infectious, and chronic dermatological conditions. This review integrates classical Unani concepts with contemporary biomedical evidence to evaluate the dermatological, dermatocosmetic, and topical drug delivery potential of Aloe vera. Classical Unani literature was assessed to identify its temperament, actions, and formulations, while modern studies were reviewed to summarize its phytochemistry, pharmacological effects, and clinical applications. Unani texts attribute actions such as Jālī, Qābiz, Mujaffif, Murattib, Mulattif, Muhallil-e-Waram, and Munaqqī-e-Qurūh, which correlate with experimentally proven anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, antioxidant, wound-healing, moisturizing, and barrier-restorative effects. These activities are mainly linked to anthraquinones, polysaccharides, vitamins, enzymes, and other bioactive compounds. Clinical evidence supports its use in acne vulgaris, tinea, dermatitis, psoriasis, pruritus, radiation dermatitis, burns, wounds, scars, and scalp disorders. Its favorable safety profile and formulation adaptability further support its incorporation into topical drug delivery systems and cosmeceuticals. Overall, the convergence of Unani therapeutics with biomedical evidence highlights Aloe vera as a promising integrative agent in dermatology, warranting further standardized clinical research. Keywords: Aloe vera; Unani medicine; Umoor-e-Zeeenat; Skin disorders; Sibr; Elwa