Aloe vera is a fleshy green cactus plant. A gel made from the plant is used as a complementary therapy for dry skin, cuts, and burns. Aloe vera gel may provide a protective effect on skin with increasing cumulative uses. It is described as having anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It may reduce vasoconstriction as well as leukocyte and platelet aggregation at the site of injury. It is known to improve wound oxygenation, increase the rate of collagen formation, and decrease the amount of dead tissue at the wound site. Aloe vera preparations have been studied for radiodermatitis and mucositis.