Aloe Vera Health Benefits
Ancient Egyptians knew the multiple health benefits of aloe vera. They used it in the treatment of infections, skin ailments and even constipation. Modern scientists have discovered many more health-giving properties of aloe vera. This can be used both internally and externally.
Aloe vera is a succulent plant. Its stem is short, growing to a height of about 80 – 100 cms. Its leaves are thick and fleshy. They are lanceolate (long and pointed with a wide middle) with serrated margins (that is, with sharp triangular teeth resembling those of a saw). It can be grown as a potted plant in your garden, by its root sprouts. It multiplies by spreading its offsets. It likes warm tropical regions and so grows well in Barbados, Venezuela, Haiti, South Africa and certain warm regions like Texas in the US.
Properties of aloe vera
The juice of aloe vera contains vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, C, and choline, which is an organic compound and essential nutrient associated with vitamin B Complex. It also has several minerals like calcium, germanium, potassium, sodium, sulfur, chlorine, copper, iron and others. More importantly, aloe vera is rich in phytochemicals, which include several organic acids. Chrysophanic, salicylic succinic and uric acids are examples. A few polysaccharides such as acemannan, enzymes like glutathione peroxidase and many resins are also among the ingredients of aloe vera. It contains magnesium lactate, as well. Almost 96% of it, however, is water.
Topical uses
Aloe vera is very good for the skin. It heals wounds of almost all types. By dilating capillaries and increasing blood circulation, it heals injuries to the skin. For burns, it can be applied on the affected part to give a soothing effect. It heals ulcers, bedsores, frostbites, abrasions, eczema, acne, ringworm and several other severe conditions affecting the skin. It works very well for sunburns. Because of its magnesium lactate content, it also works well as an itch-inhibitor.
Cancer fighting properties
As its gel contains acemannan, it is believed to stimulate the production of white blood cells that help fight disease. Scientists are therefore investigating aloe vera’s use in the treatment of leukemia, a disease resulting from a deficiency of white blood cells. Likewise, there is promise in aloe vera being effective in the treatment of certain cancers such as breast or ovarian cancers as it helps fight tumors. Acemannan along with another constituent of aloe vera, aloin, seem to work in this regard.
Other uses
It also works as an anti-inflammatory agent, and therefore, in the treatment of peptic ulcers, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis and so on. It is good for the digestive system, as it reduces constipation and heartburn. If taken internally, it works as a laxative. It has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal effects also.
The juice from its skin and gel can have beneficial effect for diabetics, by lowering their blood sugar levels. Triglycerides also are believed to show lower levels with the use of this juice.
Although aloe vera has many properties beneficial to human health, it is advisable to consult your health care professional before using it as an alternative herbal remedy for various ailments, particularly when you wish to take it internally.
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