Aloe Vera – sources, health benefits, nutrients, uses and constituents at NaturalPedia.com

Aloe vera is a short-stemmed, succulent plant species belonging to the Aloe genus. Originally from North Africa, the Canary Islands, and Southern Europe, aloe vera is now widely grown in tropical climates all over the world. Aloe vera is cultivated for cosmetics, food supplements, and herbal remedies, with the majority of its applications making use of the plant’s nutrient-dense leaves.

List of known nutrients

Aloe vera was once called the “plant of immortality” by ancient Egyptians because of its abundance of healing properties. This is thanks to its bounty of active nutrients which include:

• Amino acids
• Anthraquinones
• Calcium
• Choline
• Fatty acids
• Germanium
• Magnesium
• Manganese
• Potassium
• Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
• Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Zinc

Medicinal uses for aloe vera

Aloe vera has been used to alleviate the symptoms associated with such conditions as:

• Acne
• Allergies
• Arthritis
• Burns
• Cavities
• Constipation
• Cuts
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Headaches
• Hepatitis
• Infections
• Inflammation
• Intestinal worms and parasites
• Irregular bowel movements
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Liver problems
• Premenstrual syndrome
• Skin disorders, including skin cancer
• Stomach disorders, including stomach ulcers

Aloe vera is believed to be a powerful natural laxative, so much so that small doses of dried aloe vera are usually recommended since higher doses can cause severe abdominal cramping and diarrhea.

Dried aloe vera powder can also be used to treat the symptoms of hepatitis and liver problems.

Stabilized aloe vera gel was found to be highly effective in fighting cavities. In addition to possessing germ-fighting qualities, the anti-inflammatory anthraquinones in aloe vera can heal and reduce pain in the gums.

Consuming aloe vera gel can minimize the severity of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); aloe vera’s low toxicity level makes it a gentle and safe remedy for this particular ailment.

The natural healing and antioxidant properties of aloe vera help make it an effective treatment for acne and scars.

Body systems supported by aloe vera

Aloe vera leaves and flowers can be good for:

• Digestive system, including stomach, large intestine, and intestinal tract
• Heart
• Immune system, including spleen
• Liver
• Lungs
• Skin

Aloe vera is rich in compounds that nourish, moisturize, and heal the skin, most notably vitamin C and vitamin E. Furthermore, aloe vera can be tolerated by all skin types, so individuals who have dry or sensitive skin can use aloe vera with little issue.

The impressive mineral and vitamin content of aloe vera can boost the immune system.

Apart from its laxative qualities, aloe vera can benefit the digestive system by protecting it from intestinal worms and parasites.

Ways to use aloe vera

Aloe vera gel can be consumed directly or incorporated into salads and salsas. The bitter, watery zest can be off-putting for some people, however. One way around this is to take aloe vera as a juice since it’s the most palatable and easiest way of taking this beneficial plant.

Aloe vera gel does just as well in topical applications, especially as a paste with other skin-friendly ingredients like honey and turmeric.

Where to learn more

• Aloe Vera: Natural Magic Bullet
• Aloe Vera: The Miraculous Natural Healer
• Aloe vera plant produces miraculous, life-saving results in trauma, burns and hemorrhagic shock
• Innovative dried aloe vera gel product now available from Good Cause Wellness
• The aloe vera miracle: A natural medicine for cancer, cholesterol, diabetes, inflammation, IBS, and other health conditions

Summary

Aloe vera is unique among plants thanks to its wealth of active nutrients, which number at least 75. The sheer volume and variety of compounds have contributed to aloe vera’s reputation as a healing plant. Aloe vera is good for the skin, for the treatment of constipation and cavities, and many others. However, aloe vera can be a powerful laxative, so internally taking it is best done in moderation.

Sources include:

MedicalNewsToday.com
TheSuperFoods.net
HealthLine.com
Food.NDTV.com
NoahLaith.com