Discover the Many Health Benefits of Drinking Aloe Vera Cactus Tea

The Many Health Benefits of Drinking Aloe Vera Cactus Tea

Aloe vera cactus tea has become an increasingly popular beverage due to its many potential health benefits. Made from the leaves of the aloe vera plant, this refreshing tea contains active compounds like vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and amino acids that may help improve overall health and wellbeing.

What is Aloe Vera Cactus Tea?

Aloe vera tea is an herbal infusion made by steeping the leaves and gel of the aloe vera plant in hot water. It has a mild, refreshing taste reminiscent of green tea. Unlike green tea, aloe vera tea is caffeine-free making it a relaxing alternative.

This plant originated in northern Africa and has been used for centuries in herbal medicine due to its therapeutic properties. The bulk of the health benefits come from the gel-like substance found in the center of the leaves, which contains over 200 active components including:

• Vitamins A, B12, C and E
• Minerals like calcium, sodium, magnesium and zinc
• Amino acids
• Antioxidants
• Enzymes
• Polysaccharides such as glucomannans

Research has linked this diverse nutritional profile to many of the touted health benefits of aloe vera tea.

8 Science-Based Benefits of Aloe Vera Tea

Here are some of the ways drinking aloe vera tea may benefit your health:

1. Packed with Antioxidants

Aloe vera gel contains antioxidants like vitamin C and E as well as beta-carotene. These compounds help combat free radicals and oxidative stress that can damage cells.

One study found aloe vera extract was able to neutralize five different free radicals. The antioxidants in the tea may help reduce inflammation, slow aging of cells, and protect against chronic disease.

2. Supports Digestive Health

Aloe vera tea has long been used to help relieve constipation and improve digestive regularity. Compounds like anthraquinones found in the leaves have a laxative effect that encourages bowel movements.

Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera may soothe gastrointestinal issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The polysaccharides could provide a prebiotic effect to feed healthy gut bacteria.

3. Strengthens the Immune System

The wide range of nutrients in aloe vera tea, like vitamin C, antioxidants and amino acids, may give your immune system a boost. One study gave people aloe vera gel for 30 days and found it increased protective white blood cells and antioxidants.

Also, drinking aloe vera tea hydrates the body and helps flush out toxins, which supports immune function. The anti-inflammatory effects help reduce inflammation that can weaken immunity.

4. Improves Heart Health

The beta-sitosterol found in aloe vera has been shown to help lower cholesterol. Drinking aloe vera tea may help improve blood lipid profiles and lower bad LDL cholesterol to keep your heart healthy.

Aloe vera extract also displayed anti-diabetic effects in one study, which could regulate blood sugar levels important for a healthy heart. The teas hydrating properties and antioxidants provide additional heart protection as well.

5. Aids in Detoxification

Sipping on aloe vera tea promotes hydration and may even enhance detoxification. Aloe vera contains compounds that increase urine output, helping flush toxins from your kidneys and liver.

Plus, the dietary fiber binds to toxins in the digestive tract to sweep them out through the stool. The antimicrobial effects of aloe vera may also help kill off harmful bacteria in the gut.

6. Promotes Oral Health

Due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera has been used for centuries to help treat gum disease and bacteria in the mouth. Drinking aloe vera tea could help kill cavity-causing bacteria.

One study had people rinse with an aloe vera juice mouthwash, which significantly reduced gingivitis and plaque buildup compared to regular mouthwash.

7. Supports Skin Health

Hydrating aloe vera tea may help improve skin health and appearance from the inside out. The nutrients, like vitamin C and E, can boost skin cell regeneration and enhance collagen production.

The tea also provides antioxidants to help protect the skin from sun damage. Applying cool aloe vera tea directly to the skin can reduce acne, redness and inflammation as well.

8. Lowers Blood Sugar

Some research indicates the phytosterols and anthraquinones in aloe vera tea can help lower blood sugar levels. This helps regulate blood sugar in those with diabetes but could also prevent unhealthy spikes for those without diabetes.

One analysis found supplementing with aloe vera significantly decreased fasting blood glucose and hemoglobin A1c. More research is still needed, but the preliminary evidence is promising.

How to Prepare and Drink Aloe Vera Tea

There are a few simple ways to make fresh aloe vera tea at home. The easiest way is to start with packaged aloe vera gel rather than an actual plant.

To make:

1. Mix 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel into 1 cup of hot water. The water should be hot, not boiling, to maximize benefits.
2. Add lemon, ginger or honey to taste. These ingredients complement the mild flavor of aloe vera tea.
3. Let the tea steep for 3-5 minutes before straining out the gel remnants.
4. Enjoy the drink warm or chilled over ice, as desired.

If you have an aloe vera plant, simply cut open one leaf and use a spoon to scrape off the gel. Add 2 tablespoons of the gel to your tea.

For cold brew tea, combine the aloe vera gel and 4 cups of cold water in a pitcher. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before straining and serving over ice.

Potential Side Effects

For most people aloe vera tea is safe, especially when consumed in moderation. However side effects can include:

• Diarrhea or stomach cramps due to the laxative components
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Drug interactions
• Allergic reactions in sensitive individuals

Aloe vera intake should be avoided by:

• Pregnant or nursing women due to the laxative effects
• People with hemorrhoids or irritable bowel syndrome
• Those taking diuretics or medication changed by the liver
• Children under 12 years old

It's always best to drink aloe vera tea in moderation. Start with small amounts to assess tolerance.

The Bottom Line

Packed full of antioxidants, amino acids and vitamins - aloe vera tea has a long history of traditional medicinal use for digestive health, immune support, blood sugar control and more.

Drinking just 2-3 cups of aloe vera tea per day may provide health promoting compounds to help boost your overall wellbeing.

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.