Aloe Vera: Nature’s Miracle Plant

What Is Aloe Vera?

Aloe vera barbadensis-miller, commonly known as aloe vera, is a perennial, succulent plant of the lily family. Aloe vera can be traced back nearly 6,000 years to ancient Egypt, where the plant was depicted on stone carvings. Known as the “plant of immortality,” aloe vera was often a gift from the Egyptians to their pharaohs to help them live long and healthy lives. While beliefs and uses have varied greatly from culture to culture over the past six millennia, the aloe vera plant is still widely acclaimed for its medicinal and cosmetic qualities.

The leaf’s innermost gel, known as aloe vera gel, has been widely used in the treatment of a multitude of conditions including bites, burns, blisters, constipation, dry skin, gum and mouth disease, stomach disorders, insomnia, and more.

Aloe is also highly praised as an ingredient in skin care remedies and is used in a number of cosmetic products. Though non-anesthetic, it’s considered soothing and moisturizing. Its gel consistency makes it a great organic sealant, helping to retain moisture and protect skin from exposure.

What Are Some of The Benefits of Aloe Vera?

Heals Burns Faster

Treating burns can be complicated. The healing process involves controlling bacteria while soothing discomfort and allowing the body to heal itself naturally. Aloe is considered to be an excellent home remedy for treating mild sun and thermal burns, as it contains active chemicals that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Aloe also soaks into skin quickly and provides immediate soothing relief, helping to control bacteria and soothe discomfort while the burn heals. Aloe might also improve blood flow to the damaged area, increasing collagen formation and helping the wound to heal quicker. In fact, some studies suggest that using aloe vera in the treatment of first- and second-degree burns can reduce healing time by as much as nine days.

Can Reduce Inflammation

Many chronic diseases, such as eczema, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and arthritis, are caused by inflammation. Aloe vera is well known to possess numerous anti-inflammatory properties, from the presence of natural plant steroids such as campesterol and lupeol to the inhibition of inflammation-causing histamines. These properties not only help reduce inflammation, but they can also help to reduce the pain associated with chronic inflammatory diseases, helping the individual to live a more comfortable life.

Reduces Bad Cholesterol Levels

Elevated LDL or “bad” cholesterol is strongly associated with a risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. Results of a study published by the Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology showed that aloe intake lowered production of cholesterol by nearly 30 percent. Not only that, but additional research shows that aloe vera consumption can also increase HDL or “good” cholesterol levels, making aloe vera an incredibly beneficial option for balancing cholesterol levels.

Boosts the Health of Skin

Aloe has been used as a skin health remedy since ancient times. The inner gel is an amazing natural remedy for diminishing the symptoms of aging and UV damage, and costs significantly less than the expensive “miracle” creams on the market. Aloe contains a large amount of water, which helps to hydrate skin. It’s also found to reduce the impact of UV damage on the skin, partially by reflecting the sun’s rays.

Helps Prevent Dehydration

Water makes up nearly three-quarters of our body weight. According to doctors, 75% of Americans may suffer from chronic dehydration, which can have a significant impact on overall well-being. Aloe vera is very densely water based and can help hydrate you better than water itself. This could be due to the fact that aloe vera gel helps retain water or the fact that it contains electrolytes like potassium. Whatever the reason, aloe vera juice is an effective remedy for combatting dehydration.

Supports the Immune System

Aloe vera is high in phytonutrients and antioxidants, which are known to help support the health of your immune system. This, in addition to anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, makes aloe vera an ideal choice to incorporate into your diet for overall health and disease prevention.

 Helps Relieve Heartburn

One of the most well-established benefits of aloe vera is its soothing action on stomach acidity. Aloe vera is known for being alkaline in nature and helps not only to alkalize the blood and maintain a healthy PH balance, but also to neutralize harsh stomach acid that can contribute to acid indigestion. It can also promote healing of stomach ulcers. Plus, it adds a pleasant cooling sensation that antacids can’t match.

Helps Manage Diabetes

More than 100 million U.S. adults are now living with diabetes or prediabetes, according to the National Diabetes Statistics Report. Since aloe vera is enriched with phytosterols, it can have an anti-hyperglycemic effect on people with type 2 diabetes. A recent study conducted in Thailand confirmed that aloe vera may improve blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes and prediabetes, making it an effective way to regulate glucose levels naturally.

While these are just a few of the numerous benefits of aloe vera, it’s easy to see why the ancient Egyptians referred to aloe vera as the “plant of immortality.” But don’t take our word for it! Try introducing aloe into your health and beauty regimen today and see the benefits for yourself! If you’re not sure where to start, we recommend our Aloe Vera Juice, made from hand-filleted organic aloe vera, or our 100% Pure Aloe Vera Gel.

Disclaimer of Medical Advice: Blog posts and comments to blog posts do not constitute medical advice or recommendation of any kind, and you should not rely on any information contained in such posts or comments to replace consultations with your qualified healthcare professionals. The opinions and other information contained in the blog posts and comments do not reflect the opinions or positions of Fruit of the Earth.