Does Aloe Vera need an introduction? Certainly not. Aloe Vera is well-known among people for its soothing property. But this plant has much more to it than topical use. This ancient plant was used even in times of Cleopatra for its wonderful healing properties. What is more interesting about the plant is that this plant can be easily grown and cultivated. Like any other succulent plants, it doesn’t require special maintenance. As there are many benefits that we get out of this plant, it is better to grow an Aloe Vera plant at our home.
That said, let us see some of the health benefits of Aloe Vera.
Before that take a look at the hairfall treatment using guava leaves.
Health Benefits of Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is full of Nutrients. Let us take a look at the good stuff inside this plant.
- Aloe vera is loaded with necessary Vitamins – Vitamin A, C, E, B1, B2, B3, B6, and B12.
- It also has many minerals that are essential for our body such as – Calcium, Sodium, Iron, Magnesium, Potassium, and Copper.
- It contains organic compounds called anthraquinones, Polysaccharides, and fatty acids that provide many health benefits.
Because of the above nutrients present in Aloe Vera, they are used for the following purposes.
Aids Digestion
As Aloe Vera is full of antioxidants, it strengthens the immune system. Also, the polysaccharides present in Aloe Vera has anti-inflammatory qualities. As Aloe Vera soothes the mucosal tissues in the gut, it eases irritation in the digestive track and thus, is used as an additive in the treatment of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease) and for people who are under chemotherapy/radiation therapy.
Strengthens Immunity
The antioxidants present in Aloe Vera helps in getting rid of the free radicals in the body.
This helps the immune system in a positive way. Also, the detoxifying property of Aloe Vera helps in fighting infection and illness.
Keeps Cholesterol in Check
It has been found that 10 to 20ml of Aloe Vera, when taken daily helps in reducing the high Cholesterol levels.
Acts as a Pain Relief
The anti-inflammatory property of Aloe Vera is helpful in the treatment of muscle aches. It can be used both topically and can be taken orally.
Lowers Blood Glucose Levels
Research has found that Aloe Vera has the property of reducing blood sugar levels. It also helps to heal ulcers and wounds in people with diabetes.
Skin Care
Research shows that Aloe Vera Gel is effective in the faster healing of burns. It also has a cool and soothing effect.
How to Use Aloe Vera
We need not take Aloe Vera in large quantities. When taken in Juice form, 40 ml – 50 ml is enough per day. Any excess amount of Aloe Vera juice will be expelled from our body with the urine.
There are remarkable Aloe Vera products in the market in the form of Gels and juices. They are stabilized and we can use it anytime we want. But if you have your own Aloe Vera plant at home, then it is much better because you tend to get fresh Aloe Vera which is much more effective than the ones available as products at the stores. Here are some points to remember while using fresh Aloe Vera leaves.
- Aloe Vera plant must be at least 4-5 years aged so that they are mature enough to be used. If they are young and tender, it doesn’t provide the benefits that we seek.
- The outer leaf / outer peel must be removed with the help of a knife and only the inner gel must be consumed.
- Consuming the gel immediately is important as it oxidizes and loses its nutrition.
- If there is a leftover gel, then it needs to be stored in the refrigerator.
Aloe Vera, because of its miracle property is often referred to, as ‘Miracle Plant’. But this ‘Miracle Plant’ is easy to grow and is full of surprises. Start using Aloe Vera and reap the benefits. Take caution not to use the outer part of the leaf.
