The Aloe Vera plant is the “poster child” for don’t judge a book by its cover. On the outside, it is a rigid, prickly, plain plant. The inside holds an almost magical goodness. The healing power of aloe vera is vast. It reaches into the health, beauty and food industries respectively; and, new uses show themselves every day.
What is Aloe Vera:
Simply stated, aloe is a thick, short-stemmed plant that stores water in its leaves.
Healing Properties that Occur inside the body:
Aloe Vera is anti-viral and anti-inflammatory agent. Acid indigestion, ulcers, rheumatism, dysentery, and diarrhea are just a few of the ailments aloe can provide relief from. It can lower blood sugar levels and cholesterol, thereby helping with diabetes. It is an excellent source of amino acids.
used in food:
The greatest food item that contains this healing plant is that of aloe vera water. In a past article, I spoke about the power of water. Aloe water is derived from the clean, slightly sour pulp found inside the plant; and, it has minerals, vitamins, amino acids, sugar regulating glucomannans and cholesterol lowering plant sterols. Drinking it combats gastric ulcers and aids in calming a heartburn attack. It decreases irritation in the stomach and intestines and helps keep the liver healthy. This water can act as a natural laxative and it is one of the only plant sources with vitamin B12.
The Healing Power of Aloe Vera on the skin:
The gel contains the most beneficial compounds. Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids make up the part of the plant that heals.
Aloe is used to treat burns and it has for centuries. Its anti-bacterial properties, the fact that it decreases the histamine activity in the body, reduces pain, lessens recovery time, and accelerates the healing process all support the use of aloe topically. The gel applied to the skin can treat the face riddled with the torment of acne, or the head of someone with rheumatic fever. According to everyday health, a cooling analgesic balm applied to the affected areas will treat rheumatoid arthritis.
The Concoction:
2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel and 8-10 drops of peppermint essential oil mixed together and applied to the affected areas will provide pain relief to those plagued by rheumatoid arthritis.
Contraindications:
Web MD cautions that those allergic to onions, garlic, and tulips are more likely to be allergic to aloe vera as well. As with any supplement, your doctor should be notified of what you are taking.
Conclusion:
Honestly, don’t ever make a judgement about anything by looks alone. If anyone has taught us that, it is the rigid, prickly, plain aloe vera plant.