Aloe vera, also known as elephant’s gall, lily of the desert, and burn plant, is a plant known for its wide range of medicinal benefits. This succulent plant, believed to have originated from Sudan, belongs to the genus ‘Aloe’.
Aloe vera is a juicy plant with incredible benefits that are typically gotten by extracting the gel-like substance within the stalk. The gel is either ingested or topically applied to the hair and skin. Aloe vera powder is also used in making nutritional supplements, baby oil, lotions, pet care products, hair sprays, and creams.
The plant is popular for its soothing effects and contains compounds such as anthraquinones, polysaccharides, mannans, lectins as well as 18 amino acids.
The health benefits of aloe vera include its ability to delay the aging process, treat menstrual problems, heal wounds, boost the immune system, cure dermatitis, and alleviate arthritis pain. It also lowers blood pressure, reduces cholesterol levels, alleviates nausea, lowers oxidative stress, prevents ulcers, curbs cancerous growth, and promotes hair growth.
Health Benefits of Aloe Vera
Let’s discuss the common health benefits of aloe.
Boosts the Immune System
Aloe vera juice can be used to make beverages that have natural detoxifying abilities for cleansing the circulatory and digestive systems. When nutrients are better absorbed, there would be better blood circulation and when the blood is rich in oxygen, it automatically provides nutrients to the cells in the body. When the cells are healthy, the body is able to fight off infections and boost the immune system. This juicy plant can neutralize harmful bacteria and keep you active all day.
Heals Wounds
Aloe vera contains natural healing effect which is why it is used for dressing wounds as it stops blood flow to the wound. According to several studies, aloe can effectively treat third-degree burns and restore the burned skin.
Lowers Cholesterol
When used internally, aloe vera gel helps to balance cholesterol and glucose levels. It significantly lowers cholesterol and overall triglyceride content.
Aids in Digestion
Aloe vera’s adaptogenic properties aid in proper digestion, ensure the absorption of nutrients, and also remove harmful substances via excretion. Aloe also cures irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and prevents piles and constipation. According to some studies, aloe vera extract can cure conditions like peptic ulcers, Crohn’s disease, and other gastrointestinal issues.
Reduces Arthritis Pain
Aloe is known for its incredible anti-inflammatory properties that help to alleviate pain and soothe inflammation caused by arthritis. In fact, external application, eating aloe vera leaves, and drinking aloe juice can be effective in reducing arthritis pain.
Inhibits Cancerous Growth
Aloe vera possesses certain macrophages that produce large amounts of nitric oxide, which has antitumor components. Aloe vera has proven to be effective in preventing cancer; however, it is advisable to consult a medical doctor before commencing any kind of cancer treatment.
Reduces Blood Sugar Level
Ingesting aloe vera pills can significantly lower blood sugar levels. As a matter of fact, some studies indicate that it might be effective for treating of diabetes as well.
Alleviates Nausea
Viruses, chemotherapy treatments, and the consumption of contaminated food are some of the reasons for nausea. Most times, nausea is as a result of stomach disorders or digestive tract issues. Thankfully, aloe vera juice is great for an upset stomach while also calming the body.
Promotes Hair Growth
Aloe vera is an effective option for naturally boosting hair growth. Hair products that have aloe vera as an ingredient are known to promote a full and healthy hair. The gel, which contains an enzyme that stimulates hair growth, can be applied to the hair and scalp. Aloe vera shampoo improves blood circulation and keeps you away from stress and mental strain. In fact, it is believed that aloe can treat male pattern baldness or alopecia as well.
Ensures a Healthy Skin
Aloe extract is effective for treating skin conditions and is, in fact, used in the making of many skin care products, cosmetics, toiletries. In fact, extract the gel and apply it on your face. However, some people actually drink the juice to enhance their skin health. It also helps in treating psoriasis, rashes, stings, and acne.
Eases Muscle and Joint Pain
Aloe vera’s anti-inflammatory abilities help to ease joint and muscle pains. In fact, ingesting aloe vera can effectively reduce inflammation and revitalize the body. Some studies have shown that consistently consuming aloe vera juice can significantly reduce inflammation. However, aloe vera is more effective when your diet contains less fried foods, milk, white flour, milk, and red meat.
Soothes the Side Effects of Radiotherapy
It is a known fact that, in most cases, to treat cancer, radiotherapy is almost inevitable. And so cancer patients have to battle with the uncomfortable side effects of radiotherapy. Applying aloe vera gel to the radiation spot provides a soothing effect and speeds up healing.
Treats Menstrual Problems
Aloe vera extract has proven to be great in stimulating the uterus. And so, consuming aloe vera leaves or drinking its juice is very effective during painful menstruation.
Prevent Premature Aging
Aloe vera gel is used in many skin products to help to delay aging and maintain youthfulness. The components in aloe prevent fine lines and wrinkles, making the skin supple and radiant.
Boosts Cardiovascular Health
Aloe vera extract improves blood supply and purifies the blood as well. This blood hastens the supply of oxygen to the organs in the body.
Improves Blood Oxygenation
Blood oxygenation helps to supply of CO2 (carbon dioxide) to all the organs of the body. According to some studies, aloe vera boosts blood oxygenation.
