The Amazing Health Benefits of Using Aloe Vera and Honey Together

The Powerful Health Benefits of Combining Aloe Vera and Honey

For centuries, aloe vera and honey have been prized for their healing and therapeutic properties. Combining these two natural ingredients creates an even more potent remedy that can boost your health and wellbeing in numerous ways.

Soothes Digestive Issues

Aloe vera has long been used to treat digestive problems thanks to compounds like polysaccharides that have an anti-inflammatory effect. When combined with honey, the mixture becomes even more soothing for issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

The antioxidants in honey support gut health and digestion. Together, aloe and honey can relax gastrointestinal inflammation, ease constipation and diarrhea, and balance gut bacteria.

Calms Acid Reflux Symptoms

The anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera gel can coat and protect the esophagus from stomach acid. Pairing it with honey enhances the soothing effect for acid reflux relief.

Research shows Manuka honey, in particular, exhibits antibacterial activity against H. pylori, the bacteria that causes stomach ulcers linked to acid reflux. The aloe and honey mix reduces discomfort from burning and irritation.

Boosts Nutrient Absorption

Aloe improves circulation and blood flow while honey supplies key vitamins and minerals. Together, they ensure your body properly absorbs all the nutrients you consume.

Aloe vera also contains enzymes and polysaccharides that improve gut flora. Healthy gut bacteria aid digestion and improve nutrient absorption from foods.

Supports the Immune System

Honey contains antioxidants and enzymes that boost immune cell production. Aloe vera enhances this effect with its vitamin content and antibacterial properties.

The nutrients in aloe, like vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc, support white blood cell production and activity. Together, aloe and honey provide immune-enhancing and antimicrobial effects.

Treats Colds and Respiratory Issues

Aloe and honey can both coat and soothe sore throats while fighting infection. The antimicrobial effects combat bacteria, viruses, and inflammation that lead to respiratory conditions.

Research confirms inhaling vaporized aloe or honey can deactivate respiratory syncytial virus and Haemophilus influenza bacteria in the lungs. Together, they're even more powerful for treating colds.

Heals Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers are uncomfortable lesions that can be caused by infection, injury, or autoimmune issues. The anti-inflammatory polysaccharides in aloe vera accelerate healing.

Honey has natural antibacterial enzymes that combat oral bacteria. Combined, aloe vera gel and honey can ease the pain of mouth ulcers while preventing bacterial overgrowth.

Soothes Canker Sores

Canker sores are small painful ulcers that develop inside the mouth or throat. Aloe vera gel forms a soothing protective coating, while manuka honey fights infection.

Together, they reduce canker sore pain and speed healing. Simply swish a mixture of aloe and honey around the mouth to coat the area 1-2 times per day.

Aids Upper Respiratory Infections

Bacterial and viral upper respiratory infections like bronchitis or sinusitis cause congestion, stuffy nose, sore throat and more. The polysaccharides in aloe vera inhibit the adhesion of bacteria to host cells to fight infection.

Honey also exhibits antiviral and antibacterial effects, especially against upper respiratory pathogens like Haemophilus influenza, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Moraxella catarrhalis. The combination provides superior relief for URIs.

Soothes Coughs

Honey coats and soothes the throat, while aloe vera gel provides anti-inflammatory relief. Together, they can reduce coughing caused by irritation, inflammation, or infection.

A 2017 meta-analysis confirmed honey improves cough symptoms and sleep quality more than typical cough medication. Combining it with aloe enhances the demulcent effect.

Aids Wound Healing

Research shows aloe vera gel accelerates healing of first and second degree burns. The mucopolysaccharides enhance collagen formation and skin regeneration.

Honey provides antibacterial properties to protect wounds while supplying glucose for faster cell growth. Together, aloe and honey speed healing by stimulating collagen, fighting infection, and reducing inflammation.

Treats Acne

Aloe vera contains glucomannans and polysaccharides that exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity against acne. The vitamins and antioxidants in aloe nourish skin.

Honey also fights the bacteria responsible for acne. It moisturizes skin without clogging pores. The combination helps heal and clear up blemishes.

Fights Dandruff

The antifungal and antibacterial properties in aloe vera help target dandruff issues on the scalp. Honey also inhibits fungal growth while delivering moisturizing properties.

Research confirms aloe combined with honey shows antifungal effects against dandruff-causing Malassezia fungi. Apply the mixture to damp hair and leave on for 30 min before rinsing.

Soothes Sunburns

The aloin, vitamin E, and antioxidants in aloe vera relieve sunburnt skin. Honey supports wound healing while fighting bacteria to prevent infection.

Together, they provide a soothing, anti-inflammatory effect for UV damaged skin. For best results, combine pure aloe gel with manuka honey and apply to sunburns.

Moisturizes Dry Hair

Pure aloe gel adds moisture and seals in hydration to revive dry, damaged hair. The vitamins and antioxidants strengthen hair follicles and prevent breakage.

Honey is also extremely moisturizing for hair. It creates a protective film over each strand to lock in moisture. Use aloe and honey as a nourishing hair mask.

Brightens and Exfoliates Skin

Aloe vera contains the enzymes papain and bromelain which help exfoliate dead skin cells. It lightens skin and reduces pigmentation.

The antioxidants in raw honey brighten dull complexions. Together, aloe and honey create a gentle exfoliating and brightening face mask to reveal glowing skin.

How to Select and Store Aloe Vera Gel and Honey

Choosing Quality Aloe Vera Gel

Opt for pure, 100% aloe vera gel rather than heavily processed versions with added ingredients. Look for organic, cold-pressed aloe.

Avoid aloe gels in retinyl palmitate or added colors, as these degrade the polysaccharides that provide benefits. The best aloe gel is yellowish in color.

Selecting High Quality Honey

Raw, unpasteurized honey has the most health benefits. It contains intact enzymes, antioxidants, minerals, and antibacterial compounds.

Manuka honey, in particular, contains very high antibacterial activity useful for medicinal purposes. Look for cold-pressed, unfiltered honey.

Storing Aloe Gel and Honey

Store both ingredients at cool room temperature out of direct light. Refrigeration can cause honey to crystallize and degrade aloe compounds.

Aloe gel lasts 12-18 months when properly stored. Honey remains shelf stable almost indefinitely but is best consumed within 2 years of purchase.

Risks and Considerations When Using Aloe and Honey

When used appropriately, aloe and honey are very safe. However, there are some cautions to keep in mind.

Allergy Risks

Those allergic to bee products must avoid honey. Aloe vera is very well tolerated but may cause minor skin irritation in those with sensitivity.

Blood Sugar and Drug Interactions

Those with diabetes should monitor blood sugar closely when using honey regularly due to its impact on glucose levels. Aloe vera may also lower blood sugar.

Honey and aloe may interact with certain medications. Consult a doctor before using them medicinally, especially with blood thinners.

Topical Safety

Dilute aloe gel with water before applying it to sensitive facial skin. Undiluted honey should not be placed in or around eyes.

Aloe and honey are not recommended for application to open wounds or bleeding. Only use on sealed, mild scrapes and burns.

Consumption Dosage and Frequency

Adults can safely consume 2-3 tablespoons of aloe gel 1-2 times per day. Start with smaller 1 tsp doses of honey and work up to 1 tbsp 2 times daily.

Do not exceed these dosages, as overconsumption may have laxative effects. Discontinue use if any side effects develop.

The Bottom Line

When used intelligently, aloe vera and honey are extremely versatile ingredients for improving your health, inside and out. Combining them helps treat digestive conditions, respiratory infections, skin issues, immunity problems, and more.

Select high quality, pure versions of both and be cautious with topical use and dosages. Together, these two natural powerhouses provide antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects unrivaled in healing potential.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.