It is said that aloe vera was famed beauty queen Cleopatra’s secret. The plant’s innumerable advantages have often been highlighted. Here’s a review.
Maintains healthy cholesterol levels
Aloe vera reduces triglycerides and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels. It stabilises the body’s metabolic rate and burns fat. Eliminates cancerous tumours Acemannan, a phytonutrient found in aloe vera, has anti-cancer properties which quicken the obliteration of cancer cells and tumours.
Cures radiation burns
Aloe vera acts as a curative to burns suffered during radiotherapeutic treatment of cancer. Internal and external uses of aloe vera quicken the healing process and provide immense relief. Eases inflammation Regular consumption of aloe vera juice for over 15 days helps alleviate symptoms of rheumatism, arthritis and inflammation of the eyes and ears. External application of aloe vera gel helps ease muscle and joint pain.
Boosts nourishment
Aloe vera has the capacity to augment the antioxidant effects of certain vitamins, such as vitamins E and C. This is due to its ability to enhance the quality of blood and help carry essential nutrients and oxygen to the body’s tissues and cells. ‘Aloe vera is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, B5, B12, C, E, folic acid and niacin. Aloe vera juice improves our body’s immunity,” says Dr Nirmala B P.
Improves digestive health
Drinking aloe vera juice provides relief from problems with digestion. It eliminates gastrointestinal disorders such as heart and acid reflux and acts as a laxative.
Improves circulatory health
Aloe vera helps balance blood chemistry by improving the viscosity of blood. It enhances the quality of blood by making it less sticky and prevents clumping of blood cells. This improves cardiac performance and reduces the risk of developing heart attacks and strokes. Aloe vera also helps maintain healthy blood pressure.
Improves gynaecological health
Aloe vera maintains the healthy functioning of the uterus and regulates timely menstruation. Its anti-inflammatory substances prevent gynaecological related inflammations.
Supports dental health
Aloe vera strengthens gums, promotes strong teeth, and prevents bad breath. Many toothpastes contain aloe vera extracts. Good as first-aid Aloe vera makes an excellent dressing for wounds by increasing blood flow. It quickens the healing process by protecting the skin against harmful bacteria and infections. It also helps cure third degree burns, reinstates normal skin and prevents blisters.
Manages diabetes
Aloe vera’s antidiabetic properties help manage diabetes by stabilising blood sugar levels.
Protects renal health
According to recent studies, aloe vera prevents renal diseases caused by type 2 diabetes. It protects the body against the risk of kidney stones by preventing the invasion of oxalates.
Works as a moisturiser
The moisturising substances in aloe vera hydrate the skin, eliminate dead cells and keep the skin soft, supple and glowing.
As skin and sunburn soother
Aloe vera contains cooling properties similar to menthol which help sooth sunburns. It forms a protective layer on the skin and helps replenish its moisture. Hydrated skin recovers faster from sunburns. Anti-aging and repairs wrinkles Aloe vera stimulates the production of collagens and elastins, resulting in skin rejuvenation and reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamins C and E present in aloe vera keep the skin firm and hydrated.
Improves complexion
Aloe vera repairs tanned skin and stimulates an even complexion. However, aloe vera tends to make skin photosynthetic and can darken it if you step out in the sun without applying a sunscreen. Aloe vera gel may be used as a makeup remover as well. Refrigerated cotton balls soaked in aloe vera gel can be used to sooth tired, puffy eyes.
Natural shaving gel and aftershave
The enzymes present in aloe vera have anti-inflammatory properties. Many shaving creams contain aloe vera extracts. It may be used as an aftershave to prevent razor burns.
Reduces dandruff
Aloe vera is useful in treating dandruff. Massaging aloe vera gel to affected parts reduces dandruff and prevents it from reoccurring.
Conditions hair
Aloe vera acts as an excellent conditioner and keeps hair shiny and frizz-free.
Prevents acne
The anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera prevent the outbreak of acne and pimples and effectively heal lesions and acne scars. Acne, eczema and other skin irritations respond well to the natural antiseptics in aloe vera.
Benefits oily skin and nails
Aloe vera has astringent properties which reduce excessive from sebaceous glands. A good massage to lack lustre nails with aloe vera helps strengthen and restore their sheen.