Aloe Vera, sometimes is described as a wonder plant is a short-stemmed shrub. Aloe is a genus that contains up to 500 species of flowering succulent plants. Many Aloes exist naturally in North Africa
USES OF ALOE VERA
- It contains healthful plant compounds.
- It has antioxidant and antibacterial properties.
- It accelerates wound healing.
- It reduces dental plaque.
- It helps treat canker sores.
- It reduces constipation.
- It may improve skin and prevent wrinkles.
- It lowers blood sugar levels
What are the Benefits of Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has been used for centuries for its various health benefits. Some of the benefits of aloe vera include:
- Soothes sunburn: Aloe vera gel has cooling properties and can help soothe sunburn and other skin irritations.
- Moisturizes skin: Aloe vera is a natural moisturizer and can help keep skin hydrated.
- Promotes wound healing: Aloe vera contains compounds that can help speed up the healing process of wounds.
- Reduces inflammation: Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Relieves constipation: Aloe vera juice has a laxative effect and can help relieve constipation.
- Lowers blood sugar: Aloe vera has been shown to help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
- Boosts immunity: Aloe vera contains antioxidants and other compounds that can help boost the immune system.
- Improves digestion: Aloe vera juice can help improve digestion and reduce symptoms of acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
COMMON SIDE EFFECTS OF ALOE VERA
Common side effects of aloe include:
- blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Burning and itching of the skin (infrequent)
- Stomach pain and cramps (high doses)
- Diarrhea, kidney problems, blood in the urine, low potassium, muscle weakness, weight loss, and heart disturbances (long-term use at high doses)
- Liver problems (rare)
How to use Aloe Vera for skin?
Aloe Vera has numerous benefits for the skin and can be used in various ways. Here are some ways to use Aloe Vera for the skin:
- Aloe Vera Gel: Apply pure Aloe Vera gel to the skin to soothe and moisturize. It can also help reduce inflammation and redness.
- Aloe Vera Face Mask: Mix Aloe Vera gel with other ingredients like honey, yogurt, or oatmeal to make a face mask. Apply to the face and leave on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off.
- Aloe Vera as a Makeup Remover: Use Aloe Vera gel to remove makeup. It can be gentle on the skin and remove makeup effectively.
- Aloe Vera for Sunburn: Apply Aloe Vera gel to sunburned skin to soothe and moisturize. It can also help reduce redness and inflammation.
- Aloe Vera for Acne: Apply Aloe Vera gel to acne-prone skin to reduce inflammation and redness. It can also help reduce the appearance of acne scars.
Always do a patch test before applying Aloe Vera to your skin to check for any allergic reactions.
How to make Aloe Vera gel at home?
To make Aloe Vera gel at home, you will need:
- A mature Aloe Vera plant
- A sharp knife
- A clean cutting board
- A spoon
- A clean container for storage
Here are the steps to make Aloe Vera gel at home:
- Choose a mature Aloe Vera plant and carefully cut off a few leaves from the outermost part of the plant. It’s best to choose leaves that are plump and thick, as they contain more gel.
- Rinse the leaves under running water and dry them with a clean towel.
- Cut off the spiky edges of the leaves with a sharp knife and discard them.
- Cut the leaves into small pieces and scoop out the clear gel using a spoon.
- Transfer the gel into a clean container.
- You can use the gel immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Note: Some people prefer to remove the yellow latex layer from the gel as it can cause skin irritation for some people. To remove it, soak the cut pieces of Aloe Vera leaves in water for a few hours, and then rinse them thoroughly before proceeding with the steps above.
Can Aloe Vera Help with Digestive Problems?
Yes, Aloe Vera has been traditionally used to help with digestive problems. Aloe Vera contains compounds called anthraquinones, which have a laxative effect on the bowel.
This can help to alleviate constipation and promote regular bowel movements. Aloe Vera can also help to soothe and heal the lining of the digestive tract, which may be beneficial for people with inflammatory bowel disease or other digestive disorders.
However, it is important to note that Aloe Vera can have side effects and may interact with certain medications, so it is best to consult with a healthcare provider before using it for digestive problems.