The gel from aloe vera has been used for thousands of years for its healing purposes. It is a type of succulent plant with many medicinal purposes. The gel inside the plant is gooey and thick, and it is most commonly used to alleviate sun burns and is consumed in juice form for its health benefits. The gel also makes the skin soft so many lotions have this ingredient. Aloe vera must be consumed as a supplement or as a gel; it is not found in food. Many people add it to their smoothies or shakes since by itself it doesn’t have a desired taste. It is a juice with no sugar.
There are a number of ways that aloe vera can be used. Aloe vera gel can help heal skin rashes, burns, dandruff, treat psoriasis, and help with damage to the skin caused by radiation. When taken in the form of juice, it has been known to work as a laxative. Aloe vera has also been linked to lowering blood sugar levels for those with diabetes. It has also been shown to lower cholesterol. Aloe vera juice also helps reduce acidity in the body, keeping one’s pH in balance. This also can help take care of heart burn. Aloe vera juice compounds help control secretion of acid in the stomach. This plant is also very water-dense, so it is great for hydration. We need to stay hydrated to help detox the body. The liver functions best when it is hydrated. Staying hydrated improves liver and kidney health and is needed for exercise recovery. More water also helps alleviate constipation which aloe vera does because It contains enzymes that help with digestion. These enzymes help break down sugars and fats. It can help decrease irritation that might occur in the digestive lining of the intestine. Furthermore, this juice contains vitamins B, C, E, and folic acid. It also contains chromium, copper, calcium, magnesium, potassium, manganese, and zinc. It is the only plant-based source of vitamin B12.
Aloe vera juice has also been known to help keep acne away. It is a great source of antioxidants for your skin. It helps neutralize the effects of UV ray damage to the skin as well. Adding to its beauty benefits, aloe vera gel can be used as a lightweight moisturizer, makeup remover, makeup primer, and treatment for the scalp.
It is important to pay attention to what type of aloe vera you are taking. Be sure to read the labels for decolorized, purified, and organic. Unpurified has been linked to stomach cramps and diarrhea. Drinking 8oz per day has been shown to have these health benefits. Sometimes at home remedies are the greatest tools in our shelf of self-care. Like other gel that keeps the hair in place, aloe vera can help keep your health in its best place too.
ALOE VERA: A SHORT REVIEW (nih.gov)
Aloe vera: a systematic review of its clinical effectiveness. (nih.gov)
Megan Johnson McCullough owns a fitness studio in Oceanside CA called Every BODY’s Fit. She has an M.A. in Physical Education & Health Science, is a current candidate for her Doctorate in Health & Human Performance, and she’s an NASM Master Trainer & Instructor. She’s also a professional natural bodybuilder, fitness model, Wellness Coach, and AFAA Group Exercise Instructor.
