Aloe vera juices and supplements have gained popularity in recent years and believed to help a range of health conditions. Aloe vera has a long history of topical use as a herbal remedy and there are many ways to use it as a natural treatment.
Aloe Gel as a Topical Remedy
Aloe leaves contain aloe gel and is believed to have soothing anti-inflammatory effects. Aloe vera gel is excellent as a first aid remedy and can be used topically to soothe skin burns, grazes, scalds and helps to heal wounds. Pure aloe vera gel can be found in most health food stores and drug stores. Gel taken fresh off a plant is ideal, just make sure that the clear gel is used not the sticky yellow latex. Aloe gel isn’t suitable for severe burns or wounds.
Aloe vera has a history of being used for healthy skin and Cleopatra is said to have attributed her beauty to it. Aloe gel is also useful for acne, eczema and other skin conditions. Read Natural Acne and Blemish Solutions for more information about natural treatment of acne. Research has shown aloe vera gel can be used as an effective tooth gel and tends to be less harsh on teeth and is a useful alternative for those with sensitive teeth or gums.
Properties of Aloe Vera
As well as being anti-inflammatory, aloe vera is also anti-bacterial and anti-viral. Aloe vera is an emollient and heals wounds, stimulates secretion of bile and has laxative properties. There are benefits of drinking aloe vera juice. It has been used for a variety of conditions including:
- acne
- ulcers and colitis
- irritable bowel syndrome
- arthritis
- bladder and kidney infections
- constipation
- diabetes
- hemorrhoids
- HIV
Aloe vera is believed to contain amino acids, calcium, magnesium, zinc and even trace elements of B12. Aloe also contains the mineral germanium that has been claimed to provide relief for immunodeficiency, cardiac disorders, circulatory problems and eye problems. A study has suggested that aloe vera enhances vitamin C and B12 bioavailability and other research indicates aloe could be used to aid diabetes, HIV and cancer.
Aloe vera juice can be used to detoxify the body and cleanse the colon. Reported benefits of aloe vera juice include improved digestion, stronger immune system and better dental heath. Aloe vera may even be able to assist weight loss by stimulating the metabolic rate and burning more energy. As aloe vera contains a high content of collagen protein the body has to spend additional energy to absorb the protein.
Side Effects of Aloe Vera
Side effects of taking aloe vera are rare and usually due to high levels of consumption. It is advised to only consume the recommend dose of aloe vera juice. Reported side effects of aloe juice include:
- nausea
- healing delay of major wounds
- turns urine pink
- fluid imbalance
- stomach cramps/ diarrhea
- thyroid imbalance
More serious problems in a small number of people include hepatitis and blood clotting problems. Pregnant or nursing women should not consume aloe because it stimulates the uterus and also can pass into the mother's milk. Caution is also needed if oral corticosteroids are taken as a potassium deficiency can develop.
Aloe vera has two significantly different uses: topical and internal. Using aloe vera gel to remedy skin problems is easy and has few side effects. Drinking aloe vera juice is reputed to provide many benefits for many conditions though should be used carefully with full knowledge of the potential side effects.
Sources:
Vukovic, Laurel, 1001 Natural Remedies, Dorling Kindersley, 2003
Chevallier, Andrew, Herbal Remedies Handbook, Dorling Kindersley, 2001
CancerHelp.org.uk Aloe (accessed May 18, 2010)
Priya Chauhan - A designer, topic editor and feature writer (for Hinduism) and all round experimenter of healthy living; Priya enjoys being creative, and ...
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