Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has been used to create medicine for centuries and it is packed with vitamins and nutritional compounds that help the body heal and rejuvenate. In addition to helping treat minor medical conditions, Aloe is also used in a wide variety of cosmetics and can be grown easily indoors providing fresh sap and pulp when needed

Chemical Components

Aloe contains a wide variety of beneficial chemical components including:

• Amino Acids which are necessary to build muscle, tendons and keep organs and other body systems healthy.


• Anthraquinones are naturally occurring glycosides that are antimicrobial, analgesic and provide an effective plant based laxative.


• Enzymes including lipase which helps the body digest fats; bradykinase that provides a natural pain reducing anti-inflammatory agent and stimulates the immune system; Catalase helps the body rid itself of excess fluids; creatine phosphokinase helps metabolic functions and oxidase, alkaline phosphate and proteolytiase that work together to help bind proteins.


• Antioxidant Vitamins including A for healthy blood cells, C for rejuvenation and regeneration and E that helps heal skin tissues.


• B1-B2-B3-B5-B6 and B12 that help the body's metabolic rate and break down proteins so the body can use it.


• Choline and Calcium that aid the heart, bones and teeth.


• Chromium helps balance blood sugar and helps the body metabolize protein.


• Folate and folic acid are water soluble B vitamins and assist in breaking down proteins and regulating metabolism.


• Iron which is essential for proper oxygen absorption and healthy red blood cells.


• Lignins which are able to penetrate skin tissues to help speed healing.


• Polysacchariede and monosaccharide are natural sugars that regulate immune functions and provide barriers to prevent the absorption of harmful substances.


• Magnesium which is necessary for enzyme absorption.


• Manganese is essential for nerve tissues and enzyme absorption.


• Potassium can help regulate fluid levels.


• Phosphorus in addition to helping build teeth and bone also helps balance the body's pH levels and metabolism.


• Salicylic acid provides anti-inflammatory, pain reducing and antibacterial properties to help reduce pain and swelling while fighting infection.


• Saponins are plant-based soapy substances that are antiseptic and help prevent fungal, yeast, viral and bacterial infections.


• Selenium is essential for brain function.


• Zinc which speeds up and aids all healing processes and the immune system.

Internal Uses

The nutritional value of Aloe Vera is only one benefit provided by this member of the Lily family and has been used to treat constipation, reduce internal swelling and provide pain relief especially for people with Crohn's disease. The chemical components which help regulate metabolism and blood sugar levels may be beneficial to those with diabetes, kidney stones and gastric ulcers. Research is showing that Aloe may provide immune support and assistance for those with cancer and many people use Aloe as a remedy for overindulgence in alcohol.

External Uses

Aloe sap is used for treating burns, wounds and is often included in many skin care products including shampoo where it can help control dandruff and cradle cap, bath gels that provide relief from itching and rashes and creams for wounds, eczema, rashes and frostbite. Infusions of Aloe are beneficial for those suffering from hemorrhoids helping to shrink swollen tissues while providing mild pain relief as well as reducing the itching commonly associated with this condition.

Preparations

Commercial preparations are available including juice, cosmetics, gels for skin care, creams and ointments however Aloe can be easily grown indoors and outdoors if you live in a warm region providing fresh sap and pulp. Sap can be applied directly to the skin and pulp can be steeped into juice plus the leaves can be juiced for maximum affect.

Precautions

Pregnant women and those who suffer from diarrhea or have medical conditions that cause loose bowels should not use Aloe Vera internally. Homeopathic Aloe remedies are available and talking with your doctor before starting any herbal treatment is advised.

Aloe Vera can provide a wide variety of helpful, safe, natural remedies for many minor conditions including sunburn, poison ivy rashes, and constipation plus it can be grown easily in the home.

To learn more about this miracle plant, Click Here!

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