Aloe Vera Benefits – More Than Skin Care
Nineteen amino acids, twelve vitamins and around 20 minerals – Can you get this kind of nutrition from a normal type of plant? Nope, not really, there are only a few plants in the world that are packed with so many vitamins and minerals and Aloe Vera is one of these plants. This is why Aloe Vera (AV) is considered as a superfood by many people. In fact, in an ancient Indian health practice (Ayurveda) Aloe Vera is referred to as ‘the princess’. Alright then, Aloe Vera is full of all these vitamins and minerals but what are its benefits?
Skin care benefits
If you have not yet seen a cosmetic that has AV as one of its ingredients then you are probably not from this planet. AV is considered to be a miracle worker when it comes to skin problems. It has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which make it a perfect natural ointment for skin burns, cuts and wounds. Because of its gel like texture it acts as a band-aid because it seals the wound after it dries out. It also aids in cell regeneration and is therefore useful in diminishing scars associated with cuts and wounds.
Many people feel that their skin feels softer and smoother after applying AV. There are three reasons for this. First, AV helps in removing dead skin cells and second, the plant helps to rehydrate dry skin and third, it makes the skin firm and tight because it acts as an astringent.
The Immune system
As you already know by now AV is packed with essential nutrients for the body. However, nutrients on their own as useless if they are not absorbed by the body. One of the main factors for proper absorption of nutrients is presence of other nutrients. For instance, without Vitamin D, the body will not be able to properly absorb Calcium. The nutrients in Aloe Vera work together in synergy which provides the maximum benefit to the body.
What are the benefits of a healthier immune system? Fewer problems related to bacteria and viruses. (Flu, Colds, athletes foot, etc)
But nutrients even in the right combination are not that beneficial unless your body is ‘ready’ to absorb them which takes us to the third benefit of AV.
Digestion
AV has a very mild laxative effect. The pulp or juice lubricates and softens the stools leading to better bowel movement and consequently the elimination of waste materials (toxins, undigested food and bacteria) that may clog the digestive system. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties AV also helps in reducing any kind of inflammation of the digestive system and is particularly useful for Irritable bowel syndrome, colitis and acid indigestion.
A clean and healthy system works with great efficiency and absorbs all the nutrients from the food that we eat.
Inflammation
As mentioned before AV has anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, Ayurvedic practitioners all the world believe that it also has cooling properties. Hence, when ingested it reduces inflammation in the body. This is great news for people who suffer from problems such as arthritis and back pain. Also, its cell regeneration properties aid in faster repair of damaged cells which translates into faster recovery from various illnesses.
Due to its benefits and popularity among alternative health practitioners AV is available in a number of forms in the market. However, AV is most beneficial in its purest form or when it is raw. I would thus advice you grow AV in your garden or in a pot inside your house. Unless you are living in an area where temperatures go below zero degrees it is fairly easy to take care of the plant. And if you live in a cold area then you can place the plant inside your house, just make sure that it gets enough sunlight.
Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before taking any supplements.
By: Gerald Hemphill
