By Javeria Faizan
Aloe Vera is a common household plant. It is a succulent with long pointy leaves. Its many medicinal properties have prompted it to be used for thousands of years. In this article, we will look at the 10 amazing health and beauty benefits of Aloe Vera.
Harvesting an aloe plant for its gel or juice is fairly easy. Choose the leaves from the outer section of the plant because being older they contain more beneficial ingredients. Using a knife, cut the leaves close to the stem. Remove the prickly edges and cut open the leaf. Peel out the gel with a spoon. Both the gel and the latex have their own benefits.
The fresh gel can be used directly or can be mixed with other ingredients to make homemade products. Cut it into slices or cubes. Or you can also blend it in a blender and strain it for a pulp-free clear gel. For edible purposes, it can be eaten as is or can be added to smoothies or drinks as well. It can be stored in the refrigerator for a short time. But if you don’t plan on using it fast enough, it’s best to store it in the freezer.
Aloe Vera gel is also available in the form of creams, gels, ointments, capsules, and juice. You can choose any of them if you don’t have a plant at your disposal or if you don’t want to go through the trouble of harvesting.
Because of its many health and beauty benefits, aloe vera is also called a ‘wonder plant’. We have discussed some of them for you in detail below.
10 Amazing Health And Beauty Benefits
Of Aloe Vera
1. It Heals Burns Faster
Aloe Vera gel is well known for its soothing and moisturizing effect. When used to treat burns, it was found that the wounds healed faster than the 1 percent silver sulphadiazine we usually use to treat burns. It not only heals burns faster but also provides pain relief. Economically it is also pocket-friendly.
2. It Helps Clear Acne
Its gel is considered one of the best remedies against acne and related skin conditions. With its calming properties, it helps reduce irritation and inflammation. Using it in combination with a conventional acne medication is far more effective against acne than using either alone.
3. It Promotes Healthy Hair
Aloe Vera greatly improves the overall health of hair and scalp. It repairs dead scalp skin, prevents itching, and fights dandruff. It also promotes hair growth, controls hair fall, and moisturizes, and conditions hair.
4. It Fights Dental Issues
A study conducted on Aloe Vera gel found that it is very effective in fighting dental problems. It reduces plaque and fights cavities as well as any popular toothpaste.
5. Provides UV Protection
Aloe Vera extract is a natural UV protector. It protects the skin from the effects of ultraviolet radiation. A study found that the extract from younger Aloe leaves is better at UV protection than an adult leaf.
6. It Helps In Treating Constipation
Aloe Vera is an approved alternative medicine for the treatment of constipation. Consuming its latex daily in small amounts greatly relieves the symptoms.
7. Assists In Weight Loss
Aloe Vera gel is rich in vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and antioxidants that promote and assist in weight loss. However, it should be used regularly for a long period of time to actually see the results.
8. Lowers Blood Sugar Level
It is a proven fact that consuming Aloe Vera gel regulates blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. Taking it as a supplement regularly significantly lowers the level of glucose in the blood.
9. Reduces Cholesterol
Daily consumption of aloe vera gel keeps the blood cholesterol levels in check. Several studies have shown that it reduces bad cholesterol and promotes the levels of good cholesterol.
10. It Eases Arthritis
Aloe Vera has been used to ease arthritis for centuries. Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties effectively treat muscle and joint pain. It is claimed that a daily intake of aloe vera juice wards off arthritis pain.
These were the 10 amazing health and beauty benefits of Aloe Vera. It does have some unique therapeutic properties. It is generally safe to use for most people. However, use it moderately as too much of a good thing can be bad.