The medicinal use of aloe can be traced back over 3,500 years, through the application of gel found inside the leaves to treat minor cuts and burns. The scientific name for the aloe vera plant is Aloe barbadensis, but it is also know by several other common names including the burn plant, lily of the desert and elephant's gall. This plant is a subspecies of the aloe genus, which contains over 300 species which grow naturally in Africa, Madagascar and Arabia. However, the vera genus is the one traditionally used for its healing properties.
Aloe Vera Skin Benefits
The gel found within the plant was first used to treat cuts and burns, but its use has expanded greatly because of its numerous healing properties. Aloe contains a number of vitamins, minerals and 20 amino acids able to heal the body. These natural compounds create anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-parasitic and pain-relieving ingredients. Also, some research studies have shown the aloe vera plant can stimulate skin growth resulting in the faster healing of wounds, which can decrease the chance of infection. Even with these healing properties, it should only be used in cases of minor cuts, wounds and burns – more severe cases require medical attention by a physician or hospital depending on the situation.
In addition to the natural healing properties of the aloe plant, it is used in variety of common household items, including:
- cosmetics
- lotions and moisturizers
- burn gels
- sunscreens
Benefits of Drinking Aloe Vera Juice
Few studies have been conducted regarding the effectiveness of drinking aloe juice as a natural supplement, and the results have been mixed. However, individuals who consume this juice daily have reported the following benefits:
- improved digestion and decreased constipation
- reduced inflammation and joint pain
- increased energy
- decreased heartburn
While aloe juice can be consumed daily, it should not be consumed in large amounts. Increased consumption or over-consumption can cause an increased risk of side effects.
Side Effects of Aloe
Before using aloe as a home remedy or supplement, consult a physician. Topical application can cause skin inflammation in sensitive individuals making side effects minimal; but oral ingestion can cause:
- abdominal cramps
- diarrhea
- improper interaction or absorption of medication
Using Aloe as a Natural Supplement
Aloe has been used for thousands of years for its beneficial healing properties, and its use has expanded into household products used on a daily basis. It can be purchased as aloe gel, and is found in a variety of products such as burn gels, lotions, moisturizers and sunscreens because of its pain relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. Used internally, it can relieve and reduce conditions related to digestive problems, constipation and joint pain.
Sources:
“Aloe Vera” June 2010. National Center for Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
“Aloe (Aloe Vera)” 1 June 2010. Mayoclinic.
“Aloe Vera Juice Benefit – Digestive and Constipation” Aloe Life
