Aloe, which comes from a succulent cactus-type plant, is widely used nowadays for a variety of ailments and cosmetic purposes. It originates from North Africa. The Aloe Vera plant is easy to grow even in cold climates, however, and many people nurture this attractive and useful succulent as a house plant.
Aloe Vera is a safe and potent remedy for stomach and gastrointestinal problems, superficial skin irritations and mild infections, and as a complementary treatment for more serious ailments such as diabetes and Irritable Bowel Syndrome. It has a number of followers globally who support its use and advocate it as an ideal natural remedy.
Many companies (such as 'Forever Living') have cited Aloe Vera as having anti-carcinogenic properties, but this claim is yet to be scientifically proven. It is also lauded as an antiseptic, anti-allergen, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory medicine. It is widely sold in all Health Food stores in gel form, or as a dilute liquid that is developed to consume internally. Companies who produce and distribute Aloe Vera state that the higher the concentration of Aloe Vera in the products marketed, the more benefit will be provided to the consumer. Aloe can be used to supplement existing medical treatments to bring a number of alleged benefits to the recipient.
The Following Properties Mark Aloe Vera as an Effective Alternative Remedy:
- The gel from the medicinal Aloe plant contains compounds such as mannans, lectins and anthraquinones, all of which are thought to support healing and promote wellbeing
- Topical application of the gel is thought to reduce inflammation and skin irritation, by soothing the epidermis
- Aloe Vera has antiseptic properties which can assist in reducing infection for minor skin complaints
- Aloe Vera’s soothing and calming properties are thought to line the stomach with protective coating that eases digestive complaints and improves health
- Aloe Vera can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria
- The gel is thought to improve blood sugar imbalances for those suffering from diabetes or hypoglycaemia.
Risks Associated With Aloe Vera Consumption and Application
There is some evidence from scientific studies conducted with Aloe Vera to suggest that excessive intake of the gel can create a number of disorders and illnesses including diarrhoea, kidney problems and hepatitis. It is important to consume only very small quantities of the supplement, and never use it in place of more conventional medication for serious conditions.
However, as a mild topical cream Aloe is widely used to promote healing, and the wide number of global advocates for the supplement suggest that the Aloe Vera plant has many healing properties which make it a useful addition to the medicine cabinet.
Sources:
Gage, Diane. Aloe Vera, Nature's Soothing Healer Inner Traditions Bear and Company; (March 1996)
Skousen, Max. The Aloe Vera Handbook Book Publishing Company; (June 2004)
Jen Syrkiewicz - Jen is a writer based in York, UK. She has many years of experience in the communications field, and specialises in Blog Writing and Blog ...
