Aloe vera is a succulent species of plant found in the aloe family. It grows naturally in warmer climates and grown purposefully for agricultural and medicinal reason. It is a beautiful succulent potted plant for indoors as well. The most common use for it in supermarkets is Aloe vera juice and Aloe vera gel. Aloe vera juice is drunk for its potential health benefits to the digestive tract and immune system. When applied to the skin, Aloe vera gel relieves pain and itchiness associated with burns and rashes. History shows the benefits of the plant with the Ancient Egyptians referring to Aloe vera as the “plant of immortality.”
Although the FDA has not approved Aloe vera for medical purposes, it is a natural and holistic approach to medicine with studies showing the benefits of the plant on many ailments in the body including heartburn relief, skin issues, constipation and dental health issues. Keep reading to see some of these benefits highlighted below with explanations on how Aloe helps with them. Please be sure to consult your doctor for treatment to any health issues you may have so that they can check you out for any underlying major problems if needed.
1. Heartburn Relief
Heartburn manifests itself when stomach acids go back up the food pipe. Every time you swallow food or drink the LES (lower esophageal valve) opens, when it fails to close or fails to stay closed, acid rises. Acid builds up in the stomach for various reasons and escapes the LES to cause heartburn, which occurs because the esophagus does not have a lining that protects it from acid like the stomach does.
Aloe vera is a proven natural heartburn relief remedy, working by lining the whole esophagus, reducing inflammation and improving the digestion of food. It differs from conventional antacids in the approach that it takes to relief. Antacids only treat the acids in the stomach by neutralizing them and in turn causing temporary relief from acids reaching the food pipe. Aloe vera takes a more holistic approach. When it coats the entire esophagus, it helps prevent symptoms of heartburn if acids do reach the food pipe. By reducing inflammation it is helping to heal the damage caused by heartburn. Finally, aiding in the digestion of food it helps keep the pH of the stomach naturally balanced, which in turn helps keep the acid from building up and entering the food pipe.
[nextpage title=“Next” ]2. Regulates Blood Sugar
Studies show that the correct consumption of Aloe vera has the ability to regulate blood sugar. Aloe vera naturally balances out the glucose level in the bloodstream through its Glucomannan which is a soluble dietary fiber known to have a positive impact on glucose levels. Although not FDA approved, studies show that the use of Aloe vera helps to keep the blood sugar at a moderate level for those with type 2 diabetes. Remember to always consult a doctor before adding any alternative treatments to your health plan, especially if you are currently taking medications; Aloe could adversely affect prescription medications.
[nextpage title=“Next” ]3. Keeping Produce Fresh
Studies show that Aloe vera has the ability to help keep tomatoes fresh for longer periods of time. The study showed the application of Aloe vera gel on the skin of tomatoes prevents certain bacteria from growing on the surface of the fruit using both straight gel and diluted gel with good results. With such potential, it could one day be a safe alternative for produce preservation as produce prepares for shipment to the marketplace. You can try it in the home pantry to help keep other products kept at room temperature fresh longer, like apples, peaches, plums and strawberries.
[nextpage title=“Next” ]4. Alternative To Mouthwash
One unique characteristic of Aloe vera is that it is good for dental health. Using Aloe in mouthwash helps with gingivitis and gum disease, with its natural anti-inflammatory properties, Aloe helps to stop bleeding and swelling in the gum and mouth. The antiseptic properties of Aloe help clean the whole mouth including the hard to reach areas that are difficult or impossible to reach with a toothbrush or floss. It also has anti-fungal properties that help keep nasty things from growing inside of your mouth. Please see your dentist if you are suffering from any major dental health issues as Aloe alone may not be a cure.
[nextpage title=“Next” ]5. Natural Laxative
One of the more commonly known health characteristics of Aloe is that it is a natural laxative. Aloe has dietary fiber in the form of aloe latex that promotes bowel movement. Taking small doses of Aloe every day helps keep you regular but taking some when constipated will help things get moving down there. There is a caution though, too much of anything will have adverse side effects, the same is true of Aloe vera. Also, if you suffer from any chronic digestive issues like Crohn’s or colitis, then you should not be taking Aloe vera; consult with your doctor before adding anything to your diet that might react conversely with medication that you are currently taking.
[nextpage title=“Next” ]6. Skin Care
Another of the more commonly known health characteristics of aloe is its benefits for skin care. Aloe vera is a great option for burns and rashes, especially sunburn. It soothes the burn to help it feel better, its anti-inflammatory properties help to keep swelling down, and its antiseptic properties help to keep infection away. Aloe is also good for overall skin health, it is a great moisturizer and acne treatment. The anti-inflammatory and healing properties help to reduce the appearance of acne and help to heal the skin quickly with less risk of scarring. If you have major skin issues, please consult with a dermatologist.
[nextpage title=“Next” ]7. Potential To Fight Cancer
Studies show that Aloe has the potential to fight cancer. Aloe contains complex carbohydrates that work with the body to improve the immune system. A better immune system means a body that is better equipped to fight off infection and abnormalities. One such abnormality is cancer. It also has the ability to heal DNA, which is helpful in the prevention and treatment of cancer. Of course, if you think your body may be showing signs of an illness, please consult a doctor to pinpoint what is going on in your body; the key to fighting any cancer is early detection.
