For a long time the medicinal uses of aloe vera have been known and were first noted by the ancient Egyptians. There are several aloe vera remedies available either from the gel of the plant, an oil macerated from the plant, or the juice from the aloe plant.
With these several methods of utilizing the herb, the uses for aloe vera are varied. It is one of the purest natural remedies which has few side effects and is best used fresh, straight from the plant.
Aloe vera benefits include:
- Relief of digestive problems. By taking aloe vera juice internally, a number of digestive disorders can be alleviated, including stomach ulcers, stomach acid, constipation, and general cleansing of the colon. Aloe vera can be a useful remedy to remove parasites from the system and can help prevent heart burn.
- The use of aloe vera in sunscreen can help to prevent sunburn, and applying the gel to sunburn can soothe the pain and reduce redness of the skin.
- Treating wounds and skin conditions. The soothing medicinal properties of aloe vera make it a good choice for skin irritations, and aloe can be used to help keep infections out of wounds by killing bacteria on the skin. Skin conditions such as eczema and rashes can be soothed by using the gel, which reduces skin irritation and promotes healing. It can be used to calm insect bites and has antifungal properties, which make it an ideal remedy for use on athlete’s foot.
- Regulating blood sugar levels. Taking aloe vera remedies internally can help diabetes sufferers, though if taking prescription medication for this condition it is better to check with a doctor first before embarking on any course of treatment with aloe vera.
- Antibacterial properties make aloe vera a good addition to skin creams, and it can often be found in toothpastes and hair products as well. Aloe vera in shampoos can soothe an itchy scalp and help to combat dandruff.
- One of the medicinal uses of aloe vera is found in its antiviral properties, which can be beneficial in aiding conditions such as AIDS, as it can help to keep the immune system functioning well.
- Aloe vera has excellent detoxifying properties and can keep the organs of the body functioning properly, which makes it a good choice for weight control.
Uses For Aloe Vera
Aloe vera can be found in a number of skin preparations, lotions, and drinks. Some uses are for external skin care, and some uses are internal, utilizing the aloe vera juice.
Some of these products may not contain very much aloe at all, and for maximum aloe vera benefits, one should always choose a product where aloe vera is close to the top of the list of ingredients.
The best solution is to use the product as fresh as possible, which could mean keeping an aloe vera plant at home. The leaf can then be broken off and the fresh gel squeezed out.
For the best medicinal uses of aloe vera, doses should start small and build up to enable the body to become accustomed to the aloe vera remedy, especially if being used for detoxifying or weight loss. Too much too soon could cause stomach pains. It is also a good idea to try it for a minimum of a couple of months to allow it time to work.
Health Benefits of Aloe Vera Juice
Benefits of Aloe Vera Gel For Skin
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HERBAL ENCYCLOPEDIA OF REMEDIES