What is Aloe Vera?
Aloe vera is a succulent plant that originated in northern Africa. For centuries, people have used the gel from aloe vera leaves for medicinal purposes. The gel contains over 75 active ingredients including vitamins, minerals, enzymes, sugars, anthraquinones, lignin, saponins, fatty acids, and salicylic acid.
Aloe vera gel is very hydrating and provides moisture to the skin. Its often used to soothe and heal sunburn, minor cuts, scrapes, rashes, dry skin, and other skin irritations. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of aloe make it beneficial for wound healing.
Aloe vera can be grown as a houseplant, but the leaves must be cut open to access the gel. When applied topically, aloe vera gel provides cooling and soothing relief. Aloe vera juice made from the gel can also provide internal benefits when consumed.
Nutrients in Aloe Vera
Aloe vera contains many vitamins and minerals that contribute to its medicinal properties, including:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Folic acid
- Choline
- Calcium
- Copper
- Selenium
- Chromium
- Sodium
- Magnesium
- Zinc
- Potassium
The 75 active compounds in aloe vera have been linked to a variety of potential health benefits.
Potential Health Benefits of Aloe Vera
Here are some of the ways aloe vera may benefit your health:
1. Soothes Rashes and Irritated Skin
Aloe vera gel has soothing and cooling properties that can help relieve skin irritations like sunburn, rashes, cuts, and scrapes. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and swelling. The antimicrobial effects help prevent infections.
Applying aloe vera gel can provide quick relief for all types of skin irritations. Its even gentle enough to use on delicate facial skin to soothe razor burn or acne breakouts.
2. Aids Digestion
Aloe vera juice made from the gel contains enzymes and compounds that can help digestion. Drinking aloe vera juice may help relieve heartburn, keep regularity, and balance stomach acidity.
Aloe vera juice may also provide relief for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The anti-inflammatory compounds can help calm intestinal spasms and ease stomach discomfort.
3. Supports Immune System
Aloe vera is packed with antioxidants including vitamins A, C, and E. These antioxidants fight free radical damage and may give your immune system a boost.
Regularly drinking aloe vera juice may help ward off illnesses. Some studies suggest aloe can increase the white blood cell count in your body, an important part of your immune systems defenses.
4. Lowers Blood Sugar
Consuming aloe vera juice may help lower blood sugar levels. Aloe contains compounds that enhance insulin sensitivity and improve blood glucose levels.
In one study, people who took aloe vera gel complex for 4 weeks had significantly lower fasting blood glucose levels compared to the placebo group. More research is still needed, but aloe shows promise for diabetics.
5. Hydrates Skin
Aloe vera gel provides intense hydration without leaving an oily residue. It hydrates the deepest layers of skin and enhances skin elasticity.
Using aloe vera gel daily can make skin smoother, softer, and more radiant. It may also minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The hydrating and anti-aging effects make aloe an excellent addition to face creams, lotions, and serums.
6. Promotes Oral Health
Due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera gel may benefit oral hygiene and dental health. Using an aloe vera mouthwash may reduce plaque buildup and gingivitis.
Some studies found that aloe vera gel helped heal mouth ulcers and reduced pain. More research is still needed, but early findings suggest aloe vera may support gum and oral health.
7. Soothes Heartburn
Drinking aloe vera juice may provide relief from acid reflux symptoms. The compounds present in aloe vera help neutralize stomach acidity and balance pH levels.
Aloe vera juice may also coat and soothe the esophagus to ease the burning discomfort of acid reflux. Just a few ounces of juice can quickly minimize heartburn after eating.
8. Boosts Nutrient Absorption
Some evidence shows aloe vera may increase your bodys ability to absorb nutrients. Compounds like vitamins and antioxidants are better absorbed when aloe vera juice is consumed.
This means drinking aloe vera juice may allow you to absorb more nutrients from the foods you eat. More human studies are still needed to confirm this benefit.
Using Aloe Vera
Finding Quality Products
When shopping for aloe vera gel or juice, be sure to select products made from pure, high-quality aloe leaves. Avoid products with thickeners, artificial colors or fragrances.
For topical use, look for gels with few added ingredients. Also check for certification by organizations like the International Aloe Science Council.
Recommended Doses
There is no standard recommended dose for aloe vera. However, most studies have used aloe gel complex at doses of 200 mg per day. Drinking 2-4 ounces of pure aloe juice daily may provide health benefits.
When applying aloe gel to your skin, use liberally as needed. For digestive issues like heartburn, 1-2 ounces of juice is usually adequate for symptom relief.
Precautions
Aloe vera is considered safe for topical use and in small doses. However, drinking too much may cause adverse effects like diarrhea and cramps. Using contaminated aloe vera can also cause sickness.
Pregnant and nursing women should avoid consuming aloe vera juice orally, as it may stimulate uterine contractions. People with diabetes or heart conditions should also use aloe vera carefully and monitor blood sugar and electrolyte levels.
The Bottom Line
Aloe vera is an ancient herbal remedy that continues to provide numerous potential health benefits. It soothes irritated tissue, hydrates skin, supports digestion and immunity, and promotes oral health.
Pure, high-quality aloe vera products can be a safe and natural way to enhance your health. But be cautious of heavily processed products with lots of added ingredients.
With so many benefits for skin, digestion, and overall wellness, its easy to see why aloe vera is often called the plant of immortality.
FAQs
What are the health benefits of drinking aloe vera juice?
Drinking aloe vera juice may provide benefits for digestion, immunity, blood sugar management, and hydration. The nutrients in the juice can support gut health, stimulate immunity, lower blood glucose levels, and keep the body well hydrated.
Can I apply aloe vera gel to my face?
Yes, aloe vera gel can be applied directly to the face. It is very gentle and soothing for irritated, dry or acne-prone skin. The hydrating and antimicrobial properties make aloe vera gel an excellent face mask ingredient or natural moisturizer.
How much aloe vera juice should I drink per day?
There's no standard dose, but many studies use 1-2 ounces (30-60 ml) of pure aloe juice per day. It's best to start with small amounts like 1 ounce per day then work up to the maximum tolerable dose based on your individual response.
Does aloe vera expire?
Pure aloe vera gel in a sealed container can last 12-24 months before expiring. Opened aloe vera gel should be refrigerated and used within a few weeks. Check for changes in texture, color, or smell that indicate spoilage before use.
Can I grow my own aloe vera plant?
Yes, aloe vera is very easy to grow as a houseplant. Place the aloe plant in a warm spot with direct sun and water every 2-3 weeks. To use the gel, cut off a mature outer leaf and slice it lengthwise to extract the gel.
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.
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