Aloe Vera- Wonders of the spiky green plant

Cleopatra is known for her beauty, and one of the reasons for her immaculate beauty can be credited to the spiky green plant Aloe Vera, which she is understood to have used daily in gel form as part of her beauty regime. Today, this very plant is used in several personal care products and medicines. Dubbed affectionately as the ‘Plant of immortality’ by the Egyptians 6000 years ago, Aloe Vera has rejuvenating and healing properties. The ancient Greeks used it to cure everything from baldness to insomnia.

Aloe Vera, also known as a Wonder Plant, has tremendous benefits. No wonder it is wildly used in cosmetics, herbal remedies, and food supplements.

If you have observed the leaf of Aloe Vera closely, there is yellow latex found just under the skin and white-colored gel inside the leaf. Both of these have medicinal properties. It is rich in calcium, sodium, potassium, iron, zinc, manganese, folic acid, amino acid and Vitamin A, C, E, B1, B2, and B6.

Benefits :

• Aloe Vera’s white gel contains enzymes, fiber, and amino acids, which help with digestion and digestive disorders like colitis and irritable bowel syndrome.
• It has anti-bacterial, anti-viral properties to help boost the immune system and maintain oral hygiene.
• It has laxative properties to relieve constipation.
• Aloe Vera is anti-inflammatory and helps reduce inflammation of Rheumatoid Arthritis, an auto-immune disease affecting the entire body. The immune system attacks body tissues, especially the membranes lining the joint.
• Aloe Vera juice can be used for lowering sugar levels. However, consult your doctor before consuming Aloe Vera juice
• It has anti-carcinogenic properties to fight cancer.
• Aloe Vera is rich in magnesium lactate, which works very well for chest congestion.
• Vitamin C present in Aloe Vera is an excellent natural source to fight against cold and coughs.

Aloe Vera for the Skin :

• Suitable for all skin types.
• Aloe Vera gel has a soothing effect, reducing skin irritation when applied to the affected area.
• Its anti-microbial properties help in curing acne, pimples and lightening the skin.

Aloe Vera for the Hair:

• It contains Proteolitic enzymes, which help remove dead skin from the scalp and excess sebum to promote hair growth.
• Its alkaline properties maintains the pH balance of the scalp to keep hair moisturized.
• The anti-fungal property of Aloe Vera helps in reducing dandruff.
• To keep hair soft and smooth, Aloe Vera gel can be added to regular conditioner and used daily.

Word of Caution:

Aloe Vera is packed with nutrients to treat the body naturally. However, certain treatments may cause adverse effects if not taken under supervision. Excessive intake may cause diarrhea and lower blood sugar, leading to potassium loss. It may also inhibit some drug reactions internally and cause allergic reactions on the skin.

With its numerous benefits for health, skin, and hair, Aloe Vera truly stands out as a wonder plant. Whether you use it topically or consume it in moderation, its natural properties can enhance your overall well-being. However, it’s essential to use it wisely and consult a healthcare professional if needed. Have you experienced the benefits of Aloe Vera? Let us know in the comments below! For more natural health tips, speak to a certified expert by subscribing to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

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