Grandma was right, aloe vera plant is a powerful medicinal succulent with loads of natural healing properties. Sunburned? Put some aloe vera gel on it. Mosquito bites? Aloe vera. Constipated? Yep, ingest a bit of aloe vera gel.
Let’s go through some of the true health benefits of the aloe vera plant, some even your nanna might not have known.
Beautiful Outside
The gel of the aloe vera plant has extensive topical medicinal uses. It diminishes the itching sensation from all kinds of bug bites, from mosquitos to fleas.
Certain enzymes in the gel also help to heal mild skin burns, including sunburns. These enzymes can accelerate the healing of fungal infections such as ringworm and herpes.
Additionally, the gel quickens the skin’s ability to recover from small cuts and wounds.
We’ve even used the gel as a natural facial cleanser! The difference is immediate. Smoother skin and it helps sunblock to spread effortlessly. Dermatologists say the aloe vera enzymes are natural exfoliants and can alleviate mild cases of acne. They warn, though, that overuse of the gel may cause skin dryness so it’s best to couple aloe vera gel with a moisturizer.
Related Article: How to Make Your Own Moisturizer
Beauty Within
Aloe vera benefits the body’s insides as well. The gel contains minerals, vitamins, and glyconutrients that are great for your immune system, digestion, and work against inflammation.
One study found that rinsing your mouth with aloe vera-based mouthwash significantly reduces gum swelling.
Across the globe for centuries, people have used the aloe vera leaf as a natural laxative. The green part of the plant and its thin inner layer of aloin contain anthraquinones, which are effective laxatives.
In addition, taking in aloe vera juice in small quantities may help inhibit the growth of ulcer-causing bacteria. Importantly, a 2016 study also found that the juice has “potential benefits” in maintaining healthy insulin levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
Related Article: Five Steps To Take For Healthy Skin
While you can make your own aloe vera tincture, you may first want to purchase your aloe vera juice (which can be frozen). Follow the consumption recommendations listed on the package.
Also, talk to your doctor about an ideal amount of aloe vera in your diet. Too much of the juice and its bitter aloin can result in diarrhea or other irritable bowel symptoms.
How have you made the best use of aloe vera in your plant-based lifestyle? Tell us in the comments below.