THE WONDER PLANT -ALOE VERA
Every kitchen should have a potted aloe vera plant on the windowsill.
Aloe vera has been used medicinally since prehistoric times. Today the clear gel inside aloe vera leaves is among the most popular herbal remedies for health, sunburns, mirror wounds, and other skin problem. It’s been used for hemorrhoids and insect bites as it's rich in anti-inflammatory substances and the gels form a cool soothing coating on itchy and irritated tissues.
Doctors are unanimous that aloe vera gel is helpful in minor skin aliments, but what about taking the gel or juice internally?
Nothing is certain yet, but several studies suggest some intriguing possibilities.
Japanese researchers report that the active ingredients in aloe vera inhibit stomach secretion and sores, giving credence to aloe vera’s reputation as an ulcer remedy. In fact, in one study, the gel from inside the leaves of an aloe vera plant effectively inhibited the growth of and killing H. pylori strains. This suggests that aloe vera could be effective against H. pylori infection when used in combination with antibiotics.
Lowering your blood sugar
Ingesting two tablespoons of aloe vera juice per day can cause blood sugar levels to fall in people with type 2 diabetes, according to a study Trusted Source in Phytomedicine: International Journal of Phytotherapy and Phytopharmacy. This could mean that aloe vera may have a future in diabetes treatment. These results were confirmed by another study Trusted Source published in Phytotherapy Research that used pulp extract.
Aloe is very effective -too effective, really-laxative. Aloe latex, which is extracted from the leaf rind, is classified as a stimulant laxative. It stimulates intestinal contractions that promote bowel movement.
The gel contains gummy substances that are nature’s soothing emollient.
It is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds as well as bradykinins chemical that acts as a topical painkiller. The magnesium lactate aloe vera quells itching and the gel contains substances that promote healing by dilating blood vessels and increasing blood flow to injured areas.
Aloe vera is helpful for a variety of skin conditions, including:
Minor Burns: A quick application of aloe gel reduces pain, moistens the skin, and keeps germs and air out. It soothes the pain of sunburn as well. To relieve the pain of an all-over sunburn, add a cup or two aloe vera juice to a tub of Luke warm water and take a soothing soak.
Cuts and scrapes: Aloe Vera gel dries to form a natural bandage over the skin and speed healing but not for serious wounds.
Psoriasis: The gel quells inflammation and softens the itchy skin scales and which characterize this chronic skin condition.
Dry skin :Aloe gel is easy to absorb, so it is very suitable for oily skin. However, it can also help dry skin. After bathing, you can replace regular moisturizers with aloe vera to keep moisture on your skin.
Acne: Due to the anti-inflammatory effects of aloe vera, the gel may help treat inflammatory forms of acne, such as pustules and nodules. Apply the gel with a cotton swab directly to the pimple daily.
A CLOSER LOOK AT THE POSSIBLE BEAUTY BENEFITS OF ALOE VERA
Aloe vera is also an “it” ingredient in the beauty and cosmetics world.
What’s the reason for the hype? The plant is known for supporting skin hydration and clarity. It’s rich in antioxidants such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E, and it contains seven of the eight essential amino acids. It’s also known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Try using it for the following:
treatment for irritated scalp
SIDE EFFECTS AND HEALTH RISKS OF ALOE VERA
Aloe gel ( commonly found in creams and moisturizers) is generally safe to use and can help heal the skin when it’s applied topically.
Aloe latex, however, can be dangerous. Taking aloe latex orally can lead to cramps and loose motion, and it could make other oral medications you’re taking less effective.
Aloe latex can lead to more serious problems, too. It also can lower blood glucose levels, so people with type 2 diabetes need to be careful and talk to their doctor /dietitian before incorporating aloe latex into their care regimen.
TIPS FOR HOW TO GROW ALOE VERA AT HOME
Good news for non-green thumbs: Aloe vera is a cinch to grow at home. It’s a succulent plant that prefers dry, warm climates, so it doesn’t need to be watered every day. A little neglect in watering isn’t going to hurt it — in fact, it may actually help, because this drought-loving plant lives best in dry conditions. Be careful not to overwater the plant, and if the plant outdoors, is sure to cover it when it rains.
Sunlight is key to a healthy aloe vera plant, so position it outside in a sunny spot or inside on a windowsill.
When planting your aloe vera plant in a pot, choose a shallow, wide bowl so the roots have room to move and spread as they grow. New seeds will grow around the base of the plant, which you can then take and plant in a new pot.
