Aloe Vera-Medicine Plant

Aloe vera is an extraordinary plant and is possibly the most widely used plant for skin applications in history, assisting with natural healing and skin regeneration. Often referred to by scientists as the "medicine plant", Aloe vera has been used for centuries to care for and soothe the skin. It is the Aloe ‘barbadensis’ or Aloe vera (meaning 'true' Aloe) plant which has the best and most clearly researched health promoting properties. Aloe vera, or commercial products containing aloe, is found in most American households. Aloe vera gel is widely used for the treatment of various skin conditions. Aloe-containing creams, gels, and ointments are used for minor burns, sunburn, cuts and abrasions, wounds, and frostbite. Aloe gel is also found in many shampoos, soaps, sunscreens, skin creams and other cosmetics that are used to soothe, heal, protect, and moisturize the skin.

What is Aloe Vera?

Aloe Vera is one of several species of aloe, characterized by thick, fleshy leaves with spiked sides. Its name is actually Latin for “true aloe”. The leaves contain a thick gel which is often extracted to be used in cosmetics, skin treatments, and sometimes as a food preservative.The gel is mostly found in the lower leaves. The seeds and leaves are edible.

Medical Qualities of Aloe Vera

Skin Care

The Aloe products, like Aloe gel and Aloe oil concentrate, are most known for treating skin conditions. Psoriasis, shingles, itching, , as well as abrasions, cuts, burns are believed to be relieved by the Aloe leaf gel. The anti-inflammatory elements contained in high concentrations in Aloe leaves soothe disturbed skin.

Immunity Booster

Although still needing research, the plant’s qualities to enhance our immune system are emerging as a newly discovered Aloe virtue. This may add to the medical value of the plant immensely as we can possibly discover that a couple ounces of Aloe juice daily could reduce the threats of dozens of viruses preying on our organism.

Some people drink Aloe oil, or juice, in certain amounts every day, and there are no general side-effects reported. Individuals with allergies of certain types may experience rash or itchiness. Pregnant or nursing women are advised not to take Aloe products internally.

Choosing Good Aloe Products

Like with any herbal products, the best Aloe is the purest one. Look for the extracts with as little additives as possible. Aloe gel, juice and oil do not require any fillers or artificial colours to exert their therapeutic effects, and you really don’t need any sugar, silica or starch in your Aloe product. While those making money producing Aloe extracts may pursue their economic interest by making the production process cheaper, you may find in your Aloe product plenty of things you don’t need. Additionally, high quality Aloe juice and oil are those produced with cold pressing.

Most of Aloe Vera products on the market are of very average quality because they contain extracts of low concentration. It is advisable to seek those products that are based on the 200:1 concentrate, and were prepared with the spray drying method. Such extracts will normally cost more, and are more difficult to find, yet this is certainly a case when some additional expenditures are well justified.

What are its side effects?

Topical application of Aloe Vera is said to slow down the healing of surgical wounds, but it works well with minor skin conditions. Oral administration of Aloe Vera can cause diarrhea, cramps, and abdominal pain. Taking aloe vera for more than a week can make the body dependent and worsen constipation symptoms. Patients should consult their doctor to learn more what is Aloe Vera and whether it is safe for them. Diabetics, hypoglycemic, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should be particularly careful.