Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis), also known as the "wonder plant”,is a succulent renowned for its multiple health benefits. This versatile plant, native to the Arabian Peninsula, can be found in a variety of tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It is also a stunning easy to grow indoor plant.
Aloe vera’s thick leaves are filled with a gel-like substance which contains a wide range of active compounds, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. It makes it a functional food, even if it isn't technically classified as one.
Let's take a detailed look at these substances 🧐👇
✔ Polysaccharides
Acemannan - an important polysaccharide found in Aloe vera is known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
✔ Vitamins
Aloe vera has high levels of antioxidant vitamins A , C, and E.
✔ Minerals
Calcium, magnesium, zinc, and potassium found in the gel are required for a variety of body functions.
✔ Amino Acids
Aloe Vera provides 20 of the 22 amino acids required for proper human body function, including 7 essential amino acids.
✔ Enzymes
Enzymes like amylase and lipase aid in the digestion of carbohydrates and fats, which benefits digestive health.
✔ Saponins
Naturally occurring compounds called saponins have a detergent-like effect that gives them antibacterial properties.
Benefits of Aloe Vera
As previously stated, only the gel-like substance found in the Aloe vera plant's leaves is used medicinally. It can be applied topically on the skin or consumed as a beverage.
Topical applications
✔ Skin Health.
* Aloe vera gel has soothing, moisturizing, and healing properties, making it useful for treating acne, burns, cuts, and abrasions.
* It can reduce inflammation and redness, which is particularly helpful for conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
* Its antibacterial properties help to prevent wound infections.
* The application of Aloe Vera gel can also aid in wound healing by increasing blood circulation to the area and shortening healing time. It is especially effective for minor burns and superficial cuts, accelerating the healing process and reducing scarring.
*Aloe vera lotion has protective effect against radiation-induced dermatitis.
✔ Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Effect
Aloe vera’s anti-inflammatory properties make it effective for treating conditions like arthritis. Its application may alleviate pain and swelling, allowing for greater mobility in affected joints.
Aloe vera gel, derived from the plant's inner leaves, is a popular health drink. It is a nutrient-dense beverage that provides the following benefits.
✔ Digestive Health
Aloe vera is known for its ability to soothe the digestive tract. It may help with symptoms of acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and constipation. The gel contains enzymes that help with the breakdown of sugars and fats, improving overall digestive efficiency.
✔ Drinking Aloe vera juice helps with detoxification and improves overall health.
✔ Immune System Support
Aloe vera's antioxidants, which include vitamins A, C, and E, help to combat oxidative stress and may boost the immune system. Some research suggests that Aloe vera may boost lymphocyte activity, which is critical in immune response.
💡This makes it a beneficial drink for people with weakened immune systems. Of course, this implies that it must be included in the regimen of those who have received COVID-19 vaccines.
✔ Oral Health
Aloe vera's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it a fantastic natural remedy for oral health. Swishing Aloe vera gel or using toothpaste with Aloe vera can help prevent plaque formation and relieve gum inflammation, lowering the risk of gingivitis.
✔ Natural Air Purifier
Aloe vera is a plant capable of purifying the air. It needs sunshine and requires little watering. Aloe vera can eliminate hazardous chemicals like formaldehyde and benzene.
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While Aloe vera gel is safe, the yellow substance that also comes from the leaves, known as latex, is not. If you make your own juice, make sure to remove the substance and the outer leave pieces.
Important! After you cut the leaf, hold it upright over the container you made ready (or over the sink). This will allow the aloe latex (called aloin), to drain out of the cutting. When you see yellow drips of aloin, you know it’s draining from the leaf.
https://www.gardenstead.com/how-to-harvest-aloe/
* The website also has additional important information about harvesting Aloe vera.
* If you are taking any medicines, ensure that there is no cross-reactivity.
* Pregnant women and children under the age of 12 ought to refrain from taking it orally.
If you want to take Aloe vera supplements, please read my article on how to ensure you are purchasing genuine supplements.
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References
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/acemannan
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3728063/