About Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a subtropical plant that usually grows in hot climates. Aloe vera is widely spread in Africa and places with arid climates. There are over 250 species of aloe vera and only 5 to 6 types have medicinal uses. Aloe barbadensis is one of the most commonly used aloe plant. Aloe vera consists of fleshy leaves that contain a transparent gel. This gel is used in a variety of medicines and products. Some aloe plants even bloom; a tall stock with bright colored petals. It is both fun and educational to know about aloe vera.
Aloe Vera as a Medicine
Aloe vera is majorly used to treat ailments. From burns to cancer, they are known to have some useful effect.
Alovera as an Internal Medicine
Aloe vera has been used as a medicine by the Egyptians, Romans, and in China for a very long time. It has many nicknames such as 'burn plant', 'elixir of life' etc.
- Aloe juice: Aloe vera juice is prepared from its gel. Up to 1 to 2 ounces of aloe vera juice can boost immunity, detoxify and act as colon cleanser.
- Aloe vera pills: Aloe vera pills are given to patients suffering from digestive problems. Aloe vera pills can be used to cure acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive disorders.
- Aloe vera is also used as a laxative: Aloe vera contains aloin, because of this it prevents constipation and promotes digestion. It is also believed that the liver and spleen functions are also stimulated by aloe vera.
Aloe Vera as an External Medicine:
Aloe vera is widely used in many creams, lotions, serums and soaps. Aloe vera is said to have various healing, anti bacterial, anti fungal and anti inflammatory properties.
Here are some of the uses of aloe vera externally:
- In acne treatment: Aloe vera is used in many cosmetics and medicines to treat acne. Aloe has some astringent properties that enable it to eliminate the infections and further use is said to prevent recurrence.
- In rashes: Aloe vera is also used to treat small rashes. But if the rashes persist, consult a doctor.
- Insect bites: Aloe vera is used to reduce inflammations and pain caused because of insect bites.
- Cuts and Burns: It is very useful in the kitchen as a first aid for cuts and burns.
- Anti fungal treatment: Aloe vera is used to treat minor fungal infections. Aloe vera gel can be applied on the infected area directly to reduce infection.
- Treat frostbite: Frost bite can be very serious if proper first aid is not given. Aloe vera can be used as a first aid to treat frost bite.
- Prevents scaring and stretch marks: Aloe vera is used in many anti-stretch creams and lotions. It heals the skin calms I down and reduces stench marks.
- Eczema: Some forms of eczema can be cured by using aloe vera.
- Decreases pigmentation: Aloe vera is used in many creams and lotions to brighten and enhance the skin.
- Treats minor vaginal infections
- Dry skin: Aloe vera can be used to treat dry skin and soften them.
- In hair treatments: Aloe vera is used in hair treatment products because e of its easy absorbency and useful properties. It is said to reduce baldness and promote hair growth
- Used to treat dandruff: Owing to its anti-fungal properties, aloe vera is used to treat dandruff.
- Hair loss: Aloe vera promotes hair growth. It helps in strengthening roots and increasing hair volume.
- Conditioner: Aloe vera is also used as a conditioner, because it increases shine and keeps the hair soft.
- Used to relieve stress-related headaches: Aloe vera gel, when applied on the hair, also relieves heat and stress-related headaches.
Even though aloe vera is used to treat various conditions and ailments, it is always better to consult a doctor if symptoms persist.