The Amazing benefits of Aloe Vera. The best thing since sliced bread!
Aloe vera, also known as the “plant of immortality,” has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It is a succulent plant that grows in dry climates and is famous for its gel-like substance, packed with nutrients that offer many health benefits. In this blog, I want to discuss some of its benefits to spark your curiosity about another natural ally for your home and life.
The gel found in the fleshy leaves has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a popular ingredient in many skincare products. It is also believed to have healing properties and can treat burns, sunburns, cuts, and other skin irritations. Besides its skincare benefits, aloe vera has been found to have great health benefits. However, further research is needed to fully understand the extent of these benefits.
Let’s break all of this down…
Aloe Vera Promotes Healthy Skin
Aloe vera is widely used in skincare products, and for good reason. Its gel-like substance contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that nourish and hydrate the skin, making it look radiant and youthful. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation and redness caused by acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Skincare benefits attributed to Aloe vera include:
Moisturizing: The gel is rich in water and helps to hydrate and moisturize the skin. It is easily absorbed by the skin and does not leave a greasy residue.
Soothing: it has anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and calm irritated or inflamed skin. It is particularly helpful for sunburns, rashes, and other skin irritations.
Anti-aging: Aloe vera is rich in antioxidants that help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to premature aging of the skin.
Acne-fighting: thanks to antibacterial properties that make it effective in fighting acne-causing bacteria. It also helps to reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne.
Healing: As mentioned before, Aloe vera has been used for centuries to heal wounds and burns. It contains compounds that help to promote healing and reduce scarring.
Brightening: Aloe vera contains enzymes that help to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells, revealing brighter, more even-toned skin.
Anti-inflammatory: besides all of the above, aloe vera also contains anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it an effective natural remedy for conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and other inflammatory diseases.
Burns, cuts and other skin irritations: First of all, use common sense! No matter what you read below, if the burn is severe or covers a large area of your body, seek medical attention immediately. Aloe vera is not a substitute for proper medical treatment.
With that out of the way, this plant is a popular natural remedy for treating small, superficial burns thanks to the aforementioned anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and soothing properties.
Here’s how to use Aloe vera for burns:
1. Cut off a fresh leaf and rinse it thoroughly with water to remove any dirt or debris.
2.Use a sharp knife to slice off the thorny edges of the leaf and slice it lengthwise to reveal the clear, gel-like substance inside.
3. Scoop out the gel with a spoon and apply it directly to the burned area. You can also use a clean cloth or cotton ball to apply the gel.
4. Leave the gel on the burn for 20-30 minutes before rinsing it off with cool water.
5. Repeat this process 2-3 times a day until the burn has healed.
Aloe Vera to Aid in Digestion
This plant has been used to treat digestive issues for centuries. Its natural laxative properties help to improve bowel movements, relieve constipation and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. Aloe vera is also known to reduce acid reflux symptoms, as it helps to neutralize stomach acid and soothe the esophagus.
Some studies have even indicated that Aloe vera may help alleviate symptoms of IBS, including bloating and abdominal pain, although more research is needed to confirm this.
It’s important to note that aloe vera can have potential side effects, such as diarrhoea and cramping, especially when consumed in large quantities. It’s always a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider before adding aloe vera to your diet or using it for digestive purposes.
However, if you are thinking of using aloe vera as a digestive aid, here is what you can do:
Drink it: You can buy aloe vera juice at health food stores. If you have your own plant at home, make the juice by blending the gel from one leave with water. Drink 1/4 cup of aloe vera juice before meals to aid digestion.
Take supplements: find aloe vera supplements in capsule or tablet form in health and organic shops. Follow the instructions on the package for dosage.
Add the gel to smoothies or juices: You can add the gel to your smoothies or juices for an added digestive boost. Blend 1 tablespoon of gel gel with your favorite fruit and juice.
Add small quantities into your cooking: Adding the gel or fibres onto smoothies, salads or sauces/dressings can add crunchy texture and blend well with oils and vinegar. This will have to be a trial and error exercise suited to you and your family’s preferences.
Even though Aloe Vera has a strong odour, I find its flavour very mild so in small quantities it doesn’t alter the dishes. Be careful to use your common sense to avoid any side effects.
More benefits
There are more benefits which have shown positive results in preliminary research. These studies indicate that due to the high level of antioxidants aloe vera boosts the immune system and can even contribute to lower blood sugar levels. This last one is attributed to active compounds such as acemannan, which improve insulin sensitivity, helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
In conclusion, Aloe Vera is a versatile plant…
that offers numerous health benefits. Its natural properties make it a popular ingredient in skincare products, dietary supplements, and natural remedies. Adding aloe vera to your daily routine can help to improve your overall health and wellbeing*.
What do you think? Have I convinced you to give it a try? I would love to know your thoughts.
*Please remember I am not a health expert and this is not medical advice. The statements above are the result of my personal experiences and publicly available information to help me document this blog.
Always exercise common sense and consider your personal circumstances when introducing into your routine.