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The Benefits of Aloe Vera

The aloe extract is a constituent of many consumer products including skin lotion, juice, and ointments for sunburns and minor burns. The plant finds wide application in the cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical industry.

Aloe vera is highly nutritious

Aloe vera is a good source of folic acid and vitamin B complex including B1, B2, B3, and B6. It is a good source of folic acid and is among the few that contain vitamin B12. The plant is rich in minerals such as: selenium, chromium, zinc, magnesium, calcium, manganese, copper, potassium, iron, and sodium.

Source of Amino Acids and Fatty Acids

Amino acids constitute the structure of proteins. The body utilizes 22 known amino acids. Out of the 22, 9 are essential because the body cannot synthesize them. The body acquires the supply of the essential amino acids exclusively by diet. The aloe vera plant is estimated to contain about 20 amino acids, both essential and non-essential ones. The important aspect of the aloe vera is it contains 8 of the essential amino acids. The plant also contains a range of fatty acids. The fatty acids are: cholesterol (which aids in lowering fat levels in the blood), campesterol, and sitosterol. The three fatty acids are important in managing symptoms arising from acid indigestion and allergies.

Aloe Aids Digestion and Prevents Constipation

A healthy functioning digestive system is an important aspect for healthy living. The aloe helps minimize the population of harmful bacteria in the gut and maintain a healthy balance of normal flora in the gut. The extracts have a laxative effect in the gut. As a Laxative, aloe improves the frequency of bowel movement and facilitates the evacuation of softer stool. Therefore it helps eliminate constipation. The extracts aid the body rid gut worms. The aloe gel relieves from heartburn due to gastric acid reflux.

Detoxification benefits of Aloe plant

The gelatinous nature of the aloe plant allows aloe to absorb toxins along the digestive tract. The absorption of toxins along the gut minimizes the chances of the toxin absorption into the blood system. The body eliminates the cumulated waste safely via defecation.

Benefits to the skin

The healing properties of the aloe to the skin makes it widely incorporated into many skin products. Aloe encourages the quick recovery of superficial wounds. Such wounds may arise from abrasion, minor burns, sunburns, and bites from insects. Aloe aids in relieving pains resulting from such injuries. Refrigerated aloe vera produces a soothing effect if it is applied cold on burnt part.

The compounds from aloe assist in relieving and preventing itching. Aloe is known to minimize bleeding from minor abrasion. The high water content of the aloe plant helps moisturize and rejuvenate the skin. It helps repair the collagen tissue in the skin. The overall result is improved elasticity and flexibility of the skin. It also helps to soothe and soften the skin. By stimulating the dilation of capillaries, aloe helps improve blood supply to the skin. This helps nourish the skin tissues. The skin is strengthened and appears more beautiful.

Though not verified, there is some evidence suggesting that topical application of aloe can slow aging and prevent early signs of aging.

Aloe helps minimize inflammation

Aloe contains compounds that reduce or inhibit inflammation. This helps with stiff and painful joints. The compounds contribute to improving the flexibility of the joints.

Too much of anything can be toxic. Despite the numerous benefits, consumption of aloe should be kept within recommended dosage. This precaution is essential because the long-term use of the product is not well studied.