It can be used as a water conditioner, but in slightly higher concentrations it can be used to help replace slime coat and repair damaged tissue. It is a bit expensive to use as a water conditioner, but you can use it in addition to or instead of a different water conditioner if your fish needs to repair tissue. It should not be used in addition to a different water conditioner for long term though (only as needed). I have found that it greatly increases fin repair after breeding, accidental injuries or fin rot. It is also a good followup for medications since it helps prevent secondary infections...

The effectiveness of Stress Coat with Aloe Vera has been proven by independent studies conducted at the University of Georgia, School of Veterinary Medicine. Researchers found that Stress Coat helped heal wounds and speed tissue regrowth. Dr John Gratzek summarizes the results: "Personally, I am satisfied with the results since my initial thoughts were skeptical to say the least. These definite statements can be made without equivocation: Stress Coat in no way harms aquarium fish, alters pH, or affects the biological filter. No ammonia or nitrite was detected in the test aquariums. The results indicated that the Stress Coat formula reduced the wound size compared to untreated fish tissue." Aloe Vera is high in mucopolysaccharides, an essential component of many tissues and believed to help in the healing process. The glycoproteins Aloctin A and Aloctin B are also present and identified as the probable tissue-healers.

http://www.koi-pond-guide.com/stress-coat.html

 

I've added stress coat after my boy has had fin chewing incidents, I believe it's helped with his recovery.

 

I bought Stress Coat conditioner before setting up my 10gal tank cuz the Fish store lady insisted it's one of the best for normal use. Cost me a bit though :< She said she used the stuff on all her Betta's so I bought it.

 

I used stresscoat before I switched to Prime.

 

I'm using stress coat to help with Harley's fin rot and it seems to be helping so I'm sold on it.

 

Is it really?
I may go get some more...My one guy has a horrible case of finrot..or biting...Im not sure which..:-?

 

I believe stress coat is supposed to remove chlorine as well, but since I can't check the bottle right now I'm not sure.

 

I've used it for awhile now and I will never use anything else. API products are just awesome in general