THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF ALOE VERA
The aloe vera plant has been popular for many years and widely used for its healing properties. I remember growing one at home years ago and using the stems watery liquid for burns. In addition to burns and sores, it also has many therapeutic properties that you may not know about. I learned too! Once you read how aloe vera can benefit your health, you will see how miraculous a plant it really is and I am certain you will want to buy a plant or at least some gel !
1. Contains bioactive compounds. What is that? According to Wikipedia: A bioactive compound is a compound that has an effect on a living organism, tissue or cell. In the field of nutrition bioactive compounds are distinguished from essential nutrients”. They are non-nutritional but do provide other health benefits.
Each of the plants leaves stores water in its slimy tissue which makes the leaves thick. It is this ‘gel’ that we associate with products from which it is made. This gel contains vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidants. It is commonly used in cosmetic products.
2. Potent Antioxidant and Antibacterial Properties
Antioxidants are important to our health and well-being. Aloe vera’s gel contains powerful antioxidants which are part of a group of substances known as polyphenols which inhibit the growth of some bacteria that may cause infections in humans.
3. First Aid Solution. Speeds up healing of burns, insect bites, rashes, and cuts (cuts the itch!)
Aloe vera is most often used topically on the skin rather than consumed. The FDA approved aloe vera ointment back in 1959. Studies have shown aloe vera substantially improves the healing time compared to other salves.
4. Can reduce dental plaque as effectively as mouthwash
Using 100% pure aloe vera juice as a mouthwash is one way to reduce the buildup of plaque (bacterial biofilms) on your teeth. It has been shown to be as effective as chlorhexidine which is in mouthwashes, and probably safer to use as chlohexidine contains alcohol, glycerin and dyes and has some side affects. Aloe vera kills plaque bacteria streptococcus mutans and yeast candida albicans.
5. Will treat mouth ulcers (canker sores)
Aloe vera can speed up the healing of canker sores and reduces the pain with them. It does not do as well as the treatment with coricosteroids, which are pharmaceuticals which are hormones which have side effects such as acne, weight gain, and mood swings. I always vote on the side of natural solutions if they work!
6. Can treat constipation
What no prunes? In this case it is no the gel, but the latex part of the plant which is the sticky yellow residue uner the skin of the laf, called aloin or barbaloin which provide laxative effects. It can also help detoxify the body and colon. Because of overuse in frequency, aloe latex has not been available in the US over the counter since 2002.
7. Skin & Hair. May help prevent wrinkles and improve skin elasticity
When used topically some studies show an increase in collagen production, and a reduction in skin redness. The research is not conclusive on its anti-aging effects on the skin. Can reduce stretch marks, and restore and strengthen nails. Aloe vera may stimulate hair grown, and reduce alopecia and hair loss. It is also excellent for treating dandruff. Massage the gel into your hair.
8. May lower blood sugar in diabetics
Some studies have promising results though long-term digestion is not recommended. It can help enhance the insulin sensitivity and improve blood sugar management. Also may help circulation which prevents numbness in hands and legs, a symptom of peripheral neuropathy.
9. Therapeutic properties when used as an ointment for the gums and skin.
10. Other benefits: aids in digestion with stomachaches, acid reflux and heartburn. Helps with weight loss as it increases metabolic rate. Improves circulation by making the blood less sticky. Regulates blood pressure and aid in preventing heart attacks and strokes. Reduces inflammation. May reduce tryglycerides to maintain healthy cholesterol levels. May help renal disease by flushing out excess water. Encourages healthy uterus, regulates menstruation, and can cure fibroids and ovarian cysts, plus reducing bacterial and viral infections like herpes and Candida.
The recommended dosage to drink is no more than 2-4 ounces of aloe vera juice per day. If you drink more than that it can lead to nausea, allergic reactions, and liver dysfunction. It is also available in supplements with dosage amounts followed on the bottle. It’s a good idea to keep some aloe vera gel around for skin ailments.
Information gleaned from Authority Nutrition site and other websites.