Aloe vera is a common plant that is found in almost every household. Most people assume that using Aloe vera is confined to just beauty-enhancing purposes, but that’s not the whole truth.
The scope and list of Aloe vera benefits are much wider and in this blog, we will try to uncover all of them. However, before proceeding, let’s have a glance at the scientific name and history of this amazing plant-cum-herb- Aloe Vera.
Aloe Vera Scientific Name, History, and Background
The Aloe Vera plant shares an identical appearance to the cactus. It has spikes on its edges followed by white faded spots on the surface.
The botanical name of Aloe vera is Aloe barbadensis miller and it belongs to the Asphodelaceae family. In India, it is known by several names such as Aloe vera, Kumari, Gwarpatha, Ghikunwar, etc.
For ages, Aloe vera has been used by our ancestors and forefathers for skin, digestive, and overall wellness purposes. Well not just in India, but countries all over the world have recognized the benefits of aloe vera and that’s why they are incorporating them in their routine in multifarious forms.
Benefits of Aloe Vera
Aloe vera offers a wide range of benefits due to its antibacterial, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and other healing properties. Depending upon diverse requirements and therapeutic needs, one can use Aloe vera in different forms and dosages. Out of countless, some of the major Aloe vera benefits are mentioned below:
Aloe vera for Skin
Loaded with innumerable healing properties and soothing traits, the use of aloe vera gel for skin can be considered highly advantageous. Starting from your normal desire to enhance your skin glory or to get relief from serious skin diseases, aloe vera can help heal all types of skin problems.
Aloe vera gel benefits for skin
- Aloe Vera when applied to the affected areas helps to reduce itching, redness, or dryness of the skin.
- The use of Aloe vera face wash keeps acne, pimples, and hyperpigmentation away.
- By combating free radicals, Aloe vera also works as an anti-aging agent which helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines.
- Aloe vera moisturizer or gel which is 90% of the water, keeps the skin nourished and well-hydrated.
- The several medicinal properties present in Aloe vera help combat skin diseases like Eczema, Psoriasis, or fungal infection.
Aloe vera for digestion
Well, most people believe that Aloe Vera is meant only for external use, but it’s not true. Aloe vera is edible and it is also used as a food ingredient in multiple dishes, especially yogurt and desserts.
Aloe vera mucus and its slimy texture works as a wonderful natural laxative. Once gets inside your system it emphasizes the elimination of accumulated toxins throughout the body.
Aloe vera benefits for digestive health
- Provides relief from constipation and regulates bowel movements.
- Soothing the stomach and relieving abdominal discomfort are also covered in the list of benefits of drinking Aloe Vera juice.
- Makes the digestive system strong and reduces the risk of indigestion, stomachache, and nausea.
Aloe vera for hair
For strong, shiny, and bouncy hair, the experts often suggest the usage of Aloe vera gel. The vitamins, amino acids, minerals, and other nutrients present in Aloe vera help reduce hair-related problems and support its natural growth.
Aloe vera benefits for hair health
- By creating a protective layer it protects your hair from sun damage.
- The moisturizing properties of Aloe Vera help prevent or reduce scalp dandruff and itching.
- Nutrients present in the Aloe Vera help to strengthen hair and make it more elastic.
- Aloe vera can help treat fungal infections or psoriasis of the scalp.
- One can also use Aloe Vera gel for hair problems like roughness, premature greying, or excessive oil.
Aloe vera for circulatory problems
The intake of Aloe vera juice is strongly linked with the betterment of your circulatory system. By reducing inflammation, and possible blockage, it ensures better blood flow circulation and optimal cardiovascular health.
Aloe vera juice benefits for heart health
- Through its inherited healing compounds, Aloe vera helps to dilate blood vessels which further ensures improved blood flow throughout the body.
- Aloe vera juice also reduces fatty deposits and blood clots in the arteries of the heart.
- Aloe vera, being a powerhouse of anti-inflammatory properties also helps to reduce swelling and discomfort in the legs which is often seen in patients with poor blood circulation.
Aloe vera for cognitive concerns
Not just the physical aspects, but Aloe vera has also shown positive results when it comes to treating problems related to mental health. The calming effects and soothing texture of Aloe vera provide individuals with an uplifted mood and reduced psychological complications.
Aloe vera benefits for mental health
- The antidepressant effects of Aloe vera reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and hypertension.
- Boosts learning and memorizing power.
- Calms the mind and provides the users with mental clarity.
Aloe vera for liver health
By promoting detoxification and eliminating all the harmful toxins accumulated inside your body, the consumption of Aloe vera helps a lot to improve liver function.
Aloe vera benefits for liver health
- The anti-inflammatory features of Aloe Vera reduce the problem of fatty liver.
- By regulating bowel movements, it ensures strong digestion and proper rejuvenation of the system.
- Reduces the risk of jaundice, cirrhosis, liver cancer, or liver failure.
Aloe vera for joint problems
For a number of joint-related problems, the application of Aloe Vera is advised. Well not just the external application but if you consume it orally, it will still help you to reduce your joint-related problems due to its anti-inflammatory effects.
- Reduces joint pain, stiffness, and redness.
- Enhance joint mobility and flexibility.
- Typical application of Aloe vera gel reduces symptoms of arthritis.
- Removes free radicals from the body which is associated with causing inflammation.
Aloe vera for weight management
For those who are dealing with obesity, thyroid, diabetes, or just simply want to lose extra kgs from their body weight, they can also accommodate Aloe vera into their daily
Aloe vera benefits for weight management
- Enhance digestive ability and boost metabolism.
- Regulates bowel movements which is crucial for weight management.
- Reduces fat accumulation and eliminates all the harmful toxins throughout the body.
Aloe vera for nutritional value
Aloe Vera is also comprehended as a natural supplement for fulfilling several nutritional deficiencies. It is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, enzymes, and dietary fiber that is not only helpful but also necessary for your body.
Aloe vera benefits for nutritional value
- Intake of Aloe vera can help reduce nutritional deficits, if any.
- Supports wound healing and provides inner strength.
- Provides minerals that are essential to the growth and healthy function of the body's systems.
Aloe vera for the immune system
Last but not least, the usage of Aloe vera has also shown marvellous results when it comes to boosting the immune system.
Aloe vera benefits for the immune system
- Antioxidants present in Aloe vera protect the body from harmful free radicals.
- Aloe Vera also stimulates the production of white blood cells, which fight viruses.
- Folic acid in aloe vera can reduce oxidative stress and its anti-inflammatory nature reduces irritation of the nose and throat.
How To Use Aloe Vera
Depending upon your diverse body requirements, you can use Aloe Vera in multiple different forms, and remedies. Below are some general ways through which the usage or consumption of Aloe Vera can be done:
- You can apply Aloe vera gel directly on your skin for nourishment purposes. The gentle massage or scrubbing of Aloe vera gel reduces skin-related problems such as dryness, redness, itching, wrinkles, and fine lines.
- One can also drink Aloe vera juice to improve digestion, support liver health, and boost the immune system. Because the juice of Aloe Vera has no taste, you can mix it with vegetable juice for a better taste and enhanced benefits.
- Doubtlessly, Aloe Vera gel for the face is beneficial, but it is equally helpful for your hair too. The topical application of Aloe vera gel on the hair makes them shiny, strong, and dandruff-free.
- Additionally, one can also use Aloe Vera in their meals. You can consume it as a separate meal, prepare a smoothie of it, take it with yogurt, or integrate it into your desserts.
Precautions
Well, a moderate quantity of Aloe vera can be highly helpful, but if you are allergic to it or using it in excessive quantity, then it may also result in several complications such as diarrhea, stomachache, hives, burning, stinging, or improper functioning of the liver and kidneys.
That’s why it is on high notes advised that one should always consult their skin specialist, physician, or any other healthcare professional about the incorporation of Aloe vera into the routine, its ideal dosage, timing, and manner of consumption/application.
Go Natural, No Chemicals!
The market is loaded with different products including Aloe vera face mask, shampoo, soaps, moisturizers, juices, and even capsules. However, Ayurveda experts are of the opinion not to use them as they are prepared artificially and may contain chemicals or steroids.
Prioritize home-based and extracted Aloe Vera gel or juice which is prepared using fresh Aloe vera leaves and plants. Additionally, the positive aura and beautiful ambience will also come as a complimentary gift once you have planted this herb-cum-plant Aloe Vera in your home, garden, or balcony.
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