Aloe (usually referred to as Aloe Vera) produces two well-known substances, the latex and gel, which are both commonly used for medicinal purposes. The Aloe latex is a yellowish substance gotten from just underneath the plant’s skin. The Aloe gel on the other hand is the plain, jellylike essence which is 99% water located in the internal part of the aloe plant leaf.
Some aloe products are made from the gel alone, some of the latex alone and some of the entire leaf, so they contain both gel and latex. Aloe has also been known to be blended into juice form for certain ailments. Aloe Vera has more than 200 active ingredients, such as vitamins, amino acids, minerals, enzymes, fatty acids and polysaccharides which make it a useful remedy for various ailments.
7 KEY BENEFITS OF ALOE VERA
Fight your heartburn
Study has shown that ingesting 1 to 3 ounces of Aloe gel with every meal is known to reduce the effects of Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other digestive ailments. GERD is a digestive disorder often resulting in side effects such as heartburns. The low toxicity of the plant makes it ideal and safe to utilize.
Excellent for digestion
The gentle and soothing relief of Aloe Vera aids in reducing or curing the painful symptoms associated with digestion for those suffering from digestive problems such as IBS.
Lowers cholesterol and blood sugar level
Aloe Vera is an essential remedy for individuals suffering from diabetes or obesity, it is known to regulate their blood sugar levels and treat obesity. A study carried out in Thailand stated that two tablespoons of Aloe Vera juice daily reduced the blood sugar and cholesterol level in individuals suffering from type 2 diabetes; a later study from Turkey that used pulp extract confirmed these results.
Aloe Vera is an Adaptogen
Aloe Vera is an excellent Adaptogen. This is because it boosts the natural ability of the body to adapt to exterior changes and is highly resistant to ailments. It is believed that Aloe Vera as an adaptogen stabilizes the body system, increasing the adaptive and defense capabilities of the body. This increases our ability to handle both emotional and physical stress.
Fighting against cancer
Recent studies have shown that, a constituent in Aloe Vera leaves, Aloe-emodin, is capable of slowing down the multiplication of breast cancer cells. Research is currently being carried out to determine how aloe may be of assistance in regulating other types of cancer.
Soothing for inflammations, acne, burns and hydrating skin
Aloe Vera contains about 12 different substances, including B-sisterole, which has a soothing effect on inflamed skin, burns, rashes, acne and enhances collagen which helps to rejuvenate skin.
Detoxification and weight loss
Aloe Vera juice is full of vitamins, amino acids and minerals, which makes it one of the most valuable, natural cleansers. It helps to rid the body of any harmful waste, thus naturally detoxifying the body and in the same bid burning any excess fat. Their capability as a detoxifying agent makes it essential for individuals looking to lose weight.
Using pure Aloe Vera leaf juice has no negative side effects. Although, Aloe Vera leaf products are known to have high levels of Aloin, which is a laxative which when used excessively can cause diarrhea. You are to always consult your physician before undergoing any health-related treatments using Aloe Vera.
There are hundreds of ways to use the Aloe Vera plant gel and extracts. As time goes on new ways are being discovered to put this natural powerhouse to use.
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