TOP 5 HEALTH BENEFITS OF ALOE VERA
Top 5 Health Benefits of Aloe Vera
Aloe usually grows in tropicals and in several parts of Africa, Asia, USA and South America. It contains a jelly-like substance which is bitter in taste. This gel has multiple medicinal and healing properties used for centuries around the world. Aloe vera has multiple benefits but for the convienece, the benefits are divided into 5 categories.
Aloe vera is available in the form of gels, creams, lotions and mouthwashes for topical use. Caps, liquids and powders are also available for different purposes. Aloe vera gel contains amino acids, vitamins, fat, sugar and phytosterols which acts as anti bacterial and anti inflammatory agent.
The Aloe vera is used for multiple health benefits, classified under 5 categories according to their action.
Anti-Inflammatory
Aloe vera has been shown to have strong anti-inflammatory activity when applied externally and taken orally. It helps in wound healing when applied on burns, boil or acne by acting as anti-bacterial agent. Aloe vera when applied locally or topically, prevent and reduce the severity of psoriasis & dermatitis. It prevents & heal sun burn and prevent premature ageing of skin by forming a protective layer on skin when applied topically. Aloe vera has emollient and moisturising properties and hence used for dry skin issues. It acts as anti bacterial and anti-inflammatory agent by lowering the pro inflammatory proteins and cytokines when taken orally thereby reducing pain and inflammation. [Study]
Immunity Booster
Aloe vera has many health benefits for improving innate immunity. It has shown to activate the production of white cells when consumed orally thereby improving immunity. It also contains antioxidants which prevent free radical damage and boost immunity. Regular intake of aloe vera juice has shown to improve resistant against common infections and colds. It is also useful in certain Autoimmune disorders related to skin such as psoriasis.
Digestive Support
Aloe vera helps relieve constipation due to its strong laxative effect. When taken at night with warm water aloe vera has a laxative effect. It also helps to curb acid reflux, heal stomach ulcers and leaky gut.
Blood Sugar Control
Few studies show a reduction in fasting blood sugar levels in Pre-diabetics and type II diabetes due to increased glucose uptake and glycogen synthesis. It also showed marked effect in lowering total cholesterol and LDL when consumed regularly. It indirectly helps to lose weight and reduces obesity by lowering sugar levels and glucose uptake by the cells.
Oral Health
Aloe vera as a mouthwash helps reduce and prevent oral cold sores and mouth ulcers. It has been effective in treating and alleviating the symptoms associated with Oral Lichen Planus, Submucous fibrosis, Gingivitis and Periodontitis. Aloe vera as a mouthwash for day to day use supports dental hygiene and dental health.
Notice – Start with minimum quantity because high doses initially can cause diarrhoea and upset stomach. Look for Brands and product which is free from preservatives, sugar, colours and flavouring agents. Beware that many brands don’t even contain aloe vera rather they replace it with something called Altodextrin similar to Aloe vera in appearance.
