Aloe vera contains about 75 potentially active compounds, including lignin, saponins, salicylic acids and 12 anthraquinones (phenolic compounds traditionally known as laxatives).

It also provides campesterol, β-sisosterol and lupeol, and the hormones auxins and gibberellins that help in wound healing and have anti-inflammatory action.5 The pulp contains most of the healing compounds, including:6,7

Polysaccharides8 such as mannose, which is great for gut health and has immune-boosting benefits
Essential amino acids your body needs but cannot manufacture
Polyphenol antioxidants

Sterols, which are valuable fatty acids, including campesterol, B-sitosterol, linoleic, linolenic, myristic, caprylic, oleic, palmitic and stearic acids

Vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C and E, choline, folic acid and B1, B2, B12 and B3 (niacin), selenium, zinc, calcium, iron, copper, manganese, potassium, magnesium and chromium
Perhaps most importantly, its wound healing abilities stem from the gel's disinfectant, antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, antibiotic and antibacterial properties. As an adaptogen,9 aloe vera gel may also help your body adapt to stress.