Aloe Vera or Aloe barbadensis is a plant with a short stem that stores water in its leaves. It is also known as ‘Ghritkumari’ in Hindi. The leaves are greenish in colour with serrated margins. Aloe Vera is excellent for our health. The gel present in the leaves can be consumed by making juice out of them. Aloe Vera contains vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B9, and vitamin B12. It also contains minerals like calcium, copper, sodium, magnesium, potassium, selenium, manganese, zinc etc.
Did You Know?
- Aloe vera gel has been used for centuries for its health, beauty, and medicinal properties. source: NCCIH
- Aloe vera gel has a protective effect against radiation damage to the skin. source: PMC
- Aloe vera gel has been shown to improve wound healing and reduce the risk of infection in burn wounds. source: PMC
- Aloe vera gel has been used in the treatment of acne vulgaris, lichen planus, frostbite, aphthous stomatitis, and constipation. source: PMC
Benefits & Uses of Aloe Vera Are:
1. May Aid in Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Patients with Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease experience symptoms like heartburn, flatulence, food regurgitation, nausea, vomiting, acid regurgitation etc.
- Aloe vera syrup, when consumed has shown a reduction in the frequency of most of the symptoms of GERD.[1] This is one of the most effective uses of aloe vera gel for gastrointestinal disorders.
2. Good for our Digestive System:
- Aloe Vera is a boon for our digestive system. Consumption of aloe vera juice helps in cleaning our digestive system. It also helps in the movement of bowels, preventing constipation.The numerous benefits of aloe vera juice make it a valuable addition to promoting overall digestive well-being. Aloe Vera is thus an effective laxative.
- The anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera help in the treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
3. Helps to Detox our Body:
- The benefits of drinking aloe vera juice are numerous, but consuming it on an empty stomach helps in removing toxins from our body. It also cleans our digestive system. Thus, aloe vera helps in naturally detoxifying our body.
4. Good for Oral Health:
- Aloe Vera is an effective component of mouthwash. It helps in reducing plaques and swelling in our gums.
- It also helps in reducing bleeding in gums.
- The antimicrobial activity of aloe vera also helps in preventing infections of the oral cavity.
5. Blood Sugar Levels:
- Consuming aloe vera Drink benefits to, effectively reduces blood sugar levels.
- Aloe Vera has been found to be useful in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
6. Amazing for our Skin:
- Aloe Vera application on the skin helps to keep skin hydrated, improves elasticity and prevents the development of wrinkles.[8] The aloe vera benefits extend further, keeping the skin glowing and soft, while also acting as a preventive measure against acne.Applying a thin layer of aloe vera gel for the face can help alleviate sunburn, moisturize, and enhance the skin’s overall radiance.
- Aloe Vera application on sunburns helps in faster healing.[9]
- Research has established that aloe vera gel is highly effective against first and second-degree burns. The compound aloin in aloe was attributed as the reason for the anti-inflammatory action. Further, aloe vera helps to moisturise the skin and prevent flaking that sometimes occurs as an outcome of sunburn.
- To use aloe vera for sunburn you can either take out the gel from the aloe vera leaf from your garden plant or you can buy aloe vera gel from the pharmacy. Aloe vera plant benefits to get rid of tingling sensation from a sunburn, you can refrigerate the aloe vera gel for a couple of hours and then apply it several times throughout the day on the affected region (s).
How to use aloe vera on face?
- Begin by slicing a mature aloe vera leaf and extracting the gel. For facial use, apply a small amount of the gel to cleansed skin, gently massaging it in circular motions. Allow it to sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off, leaving your skin refreshed and moisturized.
7. Treatment of Psoriasis:
- Aloe Vera gel keeps skin moisturized. It might also help to reduce redness and scaling in patients with psoriasis.
8. Good for our Hair:
- Aloe Vera is amazing for our hair.
- Aloe vera gel for hair is very beneficial as it makes our hair strong, shiny and can also be used as hair gel for styling the hair. It increases blood circulation, thus improving the growth of hair.
- Additionally, one of the notable benefits of aloe Vera for hair care is its effectiveness in getting rid of dandruff. Aloe vera is used in many shampoos and conditioners as well.
- There are also some side effects of aloe vera on hair such as allergic reactions, and dry scalp.
How to use aloe vera on hair:
- For a nourishing hair treatment, mix aloe vera gel with a few drops of your preferred essential oil. Apply the mixture to damp hair, ensuring even coverage, and leave it on for approximately 30 minutes before washing. This natural concoction helps condition the hair and can contribute to reduced dandruff.
9. Boosts immunity:
- Aloe Vera is a potent immunity booster.
- It is a powerful antioxidant and reduces inflammation.
- It kills bacteria, viruses and fungi, thus protecting us from a variety of infections.
10. Promotes Wound Healing:
- Aloe Vera shows effective wound-healing properties. It increases blood circulation to the affected area.
- It has been widely used to treat burns, cuts, insect bites, and eczema.
11. Helps in Weight Loss
- Drinking aloe vera juice first thing in the morning might help to lose weight. It clears our body of toxins and cleanses our digestive system. Additionally, aloe vera juice benefits include keeping us full, thus preventing the intake of excessive calories.
- Aloe Vera also gives a boost to our metabolism, thus burning fat and promoting weight loss.
12. Increases Shelf Life:
- Aloe Vera increases the shelf life of fruits and vegetables.
- Coating certain fruits and vegetables with aloe vera gel were found to increase their shelf life. It prevented the growth of fungus and bacteria, thus protecting them from being spoiled.
13. Relief from Anal Fissures:
- Some other very effective aloe vera gel uses include providing relief from anal fissures. An anal fissure is tearing on the anus or anal canal, around the lining. The anus is the point from which stool is eliminated from the body. An anal fissure can be a painful condition and if it is not addressed at the correct time, it can require surgery.
- To get relief from anal fissure without having to resort to expensive operative care, you can try using aloe vera gel as a home remedy. You extract aloe vera gel from the stem and apply it directly to the affected region a couple of times throughout the day. A study conducted by the National Library of Medicine found that using medicated creams that contain aloe vera as the active ingredient was found to be fast-reacting against healing anal fissures.
Other Potential Benefits of Aloe Vera
- Aloe vera benefits for female
Aloe vera juice benefits for females in multiple ways, promoting skin health, hormonal balance, and digestion. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, it nourishes the body, supporting overall well-being. Regular consumption can enhance hair quality, alleviate menstrual discomfort, and contribute to a radiant, revitalized complexion.
- Aloe vera benefits for male
Aloe vera offers several benefits for males, especially in skincare. Its moisturizing properties help combat dryness, providing a soothing solution for irritated or razor-burned skin. With natural antioxidants, aloe vera contributes to anti-aging effects, potentially reducing fine lines. Incorporating aloe vera into skincare can promote a healthier complexion for men.
Use of topical and oral Aloe Vera gel should be done with caution as it may be a cause of skin irritation, hives, cramping and other severe conditions which might require medical intervention.Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology
Is Using Aloe Vera Safe?
- Aloe vera gel for skin has been found to be well-tolerated by people of different skin types. However, minor skin irritation and allergic reactions are not very uncommon. If you are hypersensitive to aloe vera, it is advised that you discontinue usage.
- Experts recommend not to apply aloe vera gel directly to any severe burns or cuts unless it is a medication.
- If you are already allergic to tulips and kitchen ingredients such as onion and garlic, refrain from using aloe vera gel.
- Do not use aloe vera within a period of two weeks of any scheduled operation.
- Children under the age of 12, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should not consume aloe vera orally.
- When consuming aloe vera gel, give a gap of one week after every 2-3 months of continued consumption. Always purchase from reputed brands.
- Aloe vera can lower the absorption capacity of other oral drugs. Consult with your doctor if you are on medications.
- Aloe vera has laxative properties which can cause abdominal cramps and diarrhoea, maintain caution when consuming aloe vera orally.
- Do not consume aloe vera if you are suffering from below listed conditions:
- Kidney disorders
- Haemorrhoids
- Cardiac conditions
- Renal disorders
- Ulcerative colitis
- Diabetes
- Intestinal obstruction
- Crohn’s disease
10. Some side effects that can be triggered by aloe vera are:
- Low potassium
- Diarrhoea
- Muscle weakness
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Stomach pain
- Kidney problems
Aloe has very potent anti aging effects when applied topically. Aloe stimulates fibroblast which produces the collagen and elastin fibers making the skin more elastic and less wrinkled. It also has cohesive effects on the superficial flaking epidermal cells by sticking them together, which softens the skin. The amino acids also soften hardened skin cells and zinc acts as an astringent to tighten pores Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)
Conclusion
An aloe vera plant can be easy to grow and maintain at home. The gel extracted from its stems can be both internally as well as externally for better health. However, if you are suffering from health complications, it is recommended that you consult with your physician before using this natural ingredient.
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