MEDICINAL HERBS
The Amazing Aloe
The hidden benefits of aloe vera and how you can use it at home for common ailments
I love planting medicinal herbs in my sunny backyard. Its mostly from my travels across the country side when I pick up some plants back home. Aloe vera is a one of the cacti that I plant separately — because of its wide range of medicinal values.
Typically in my research on plant species( especially medicinal plants), I try to nail down the chemical composition (a little non layman-friendly) and also the science behind the reason why they are considered good for you. After some weeks of thought, I tried to put together a list of health benefits for Aloe vera — a more scientifically backed research.
Here is the gist of my ongoing research. Some of the terms are very scientific in nature — and can be easily skipped by the reader. For the more curious types, these are pointers for further research.
Why is Aloe vera considered a good medicinal plant ?
Good for your skin
Aloe vera is rich in vitamin C and E, keeping your skin clear and glowing and prevent premature ageing.
It also contains some minerals and amino acids which helps your skin stay younger.
Good for Burns
The gel is also an effective treatment for burns, cuts and acne and skin rashes. ( primarily because of its anti-inflammatory nature ). Here’s a research paper that probes the effectiveness of aloe-vera in treating for burns.[1] .
It says that application of aloe gels resulted in almost 50% reduced time in healing of burn-wounds as compared to Vaseline.
For weight loss
Some studies show that aloe vera is quite effective for weight loss.
Good for your hair
Aloe vera keeps your hair hydrated and moisturized.
Anti-inflammatory agent
Science behind : Aloe vera inhibits the cyclooxygenase pathway and decreases the prostaglandin E2 production from arachidonic acid. It also inhibits growth of bacteria.
So what is the Aloe vera Gel made of ?
- 96% water
- some organic and inorganic compounds
- a type of protein which contains 18 of the 20 amino acids found in the body
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E.
- Also contains a complex carbohydrate called acemannan.
How to use
For dry skin-
Mix aloe vera, a little turmeric, a teaspoon of honey, a teaspoon of milk and a few drops of rose water. Blend this mix till you get a paste.
Apply it and leave in for about 20 minutes or so.
For burns on skin —
Just apply the gel directly to the affected area and you’ll notice a significant improvement. ( see the paragraph in the above section / read the research paper on the scientific validity of it )
