Astonishing Benefits of Aloe Vera

Aloe vera, often grown as an ornamental plant, is also well-known  for the health benefits provided by its gel, juice, latex and extracts. Aloe vera grows wild in tropical areas. It is a succulent plant that stores water in its leaves so it can also survive in areas of low rainfall. It doesn't grow in areas of heavy frost or snow. It is either stemless or has a very short stem. It reaches a height of anywhere between 60 and 100 cm. The leaves are thick and fleshy, with serrated edges. The plant flowers in summer and spreads by offsets.

 Each aloe vera leaf is full of a clear, slimy, jelly-like tissue that stores water. This is the gel from the cells in the center of the leaf. It can be used in topical applications to treat burns and skin problems or made into the juice. Aloe vera contains many nutrients including amino acids, proteins, antioxidants and vitamins . It is one of the few plant sources of vitamin B12. The latex, which is yellow in color and comes from cells under the leaf skin, also has medicinal value.There is large-scale production of aloe vera for the cosmetic industry and aloe vera gel is also used commercially as an ingredient in yoghurt, beverages and some desserts.

Astonishing Benefits of Aloe Vera

Consuming aloe vera boosts the immune system. Aloe vera is full of antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which inhibit the  growth of infection-causing bacteria. Enzymes contained in aloe vera break down proteins into amino acids, which then nourish all the cells of the body, enabling them to function well, stimulating the immune system. Zinc is present in aloe vera, which helps protect cell membrane function.

Aloe vera used in a mouthwash or added to toothpaste is effective in reducing plaque build up on the teeth as it kills plaque-causing bacteria. Aloe vera also facilitates the healing of mouth sores and ulcers and accelerates the healing of cold sores. Apply it several times a day.

Aloe vera can be applied topically for the rapid healing of minor burns, sores, sunburn and skin infections. It reduces the itching and burning sensation that  accompanies dermatitis and helps in the treatment of psoriasis.

Aloe vera generally benefits the skin and prevents wrinkles. It can be applied topically to increase  collagen production, which improves the skin's elasticity. It can reduce redness and irritation of the skin. Its antioxidants and vitamins also help reduce the  effects of exposure to the sun's UV rays and cigarette smoke. Aloe vera gel can be added   to natural skin lotions.

Aloe vera is believed to enhance insulin sensitivity and improve blood sugar management so it could be beneficial for those with diabetes.

Aloe vera juice is alkaline and to maintain the acid/ alkaline and PH balance in the body, it is necessary to consume alkaline foods and beverages.

Aloe vera contains anti-inflammatory and laxative components, which provide many benefits, including the reduction of yeast formation and facilitating digestion. Aloe vera encourages friendly bacteria in the gut and reduces flatulence. It contains enzymes that help break down sugars and fats. It helps heal gastric ulcers and restores the stomach lining and can ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Aloe vera juice is beneficial in cases of constipation as it increases the water content of the gut, which stimulates peristalsis. Aloe vera is water dense and contributes to keeping the body hydrated. It benefits the liver and kidneys and helps in general detoxification of the body. It is good to drink aloe vera juice after a work out as this will help eliminate lactic acid.

Aloe vera is very beneficial for the hair and scalp. It can relieve a dry, irritated scalp and eliminate dandruff. It has a similar composition to keratin, the protein in hair and acts as a wonderful conditioner. It is often found in hair care products and helps promote hair growth, prevent falling hair and leaves the hair smooth and shiny. It increases the elasticity of the hair, preventing breakage. The enzymes in aloe vera gel  can  eliminate dead skin cells from the scalp and encourage regeneration of the skin tissue around the hair follicle. Aloe vera gel can be added to shampoo.

Risks of Aloe Vera

Some people have reported gastroinestinal upsets and liver inflammation when drinking aloe vera juice for more than a few weeks.

Pregnant women should not use aloe vera gel or latex as it could induce miscarriage or cause birth defects.

Aloe vera juice that has not been processed carefully may contain some of the yellow latex found under the  skin of the leaf. This is a stimulant laxative which can cause cramp and diarrhea and irritate the colon. The latex should be completely avoided in the case of Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and obstruction. It can also worsen hemarrhoids and kidney problems.

Aloe vera can interact with some medications. Consult a healthcare practitioner if taking medication before using  aloe vera  products. Don't use aloe vera products before surgery as they can affect blood sugar levels. Stop taking them two weeks before surgery.

Care should be taken by people with diabetes when using aloe vera products as they have been known to lower blood sugar levels. Monitor blood sugar levels closely when using them.

In some people aloe vera products have been found to dehydrate the skin cells.

Growing an  Aloe Vera  Plant

Aloe vera plants are popular to grow in the garden as ornamental plants. They are popular for their flowers, form and succulence.  They can also be grown indoors in a pot. If growing an aloe vera plant indoors, keep it in a window that gets alot of sun. It can be put outside in the summer. It is a succulent plant and stores water in its leaves. Therefore, it only needs to be watered two or three times a month. In winter it is dormant and only needs a little water. It should be kept inside during very cold temperatures as it cannot thrive in conditions of frost or snow. An aloe vera plant needs to be grown in a well-drained pot, such as a porous terracotta pot, in good quality cacti succulent sandy potting mix. It should be left to dry completely after every watering before being re-watered. Plants that have become crowded with growth should be divided and repotted to allow further growth and prevent pest infestation.

Purchasing and Storing Aloe Vera

Many aloe vera products from the gel, juice, latex and extracts can be bought in health stores. Be careful to check the quality of the product you are buying. The International Aloe Science Council developed a certification program that validates the quality and quantity of aloe vera in approved commercial products. Check the label carefully for this certification when buying aloe vera products.Aloe vera juice is different from the topical gel version of aloe vera, so make sure the label specifies the use of the product you are buying. Aloe vera juice should be purified, decolorized, organic and safety-tested. If not, it could cause adverse effects.

Aloe vera juice should always be kept refridgerated as it will last longer. Once a leaf is cut from the aloe vera plant, the natural enzymes and bacteria break down the active ingredients. As they degrade, their healing abilities decline. Correct processing and storage slows this process down. For this reason, if harvesting the gel directly from the plant, take only what you need at a time and prepare and use it within a few days.