Aloe Vera – Types, Nutritional Value, Uses, Health Benefits, Recipes

Aloe vera is a cactus-like plant that grows in hot, dry climates. It is cultivated in subtropical regions around the world, including the southern border areas of Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. An evergreen perennial, it originates from the Arabian Peninsula but grows wild in tropical climates around the world and is cultivated for agricultural and medicinal uses. The species is also used for decorative purposes and grows successfully indoors as a potted plant.^[1] It is found in many consumer products including beverages, skin lotion, cosmetics, or ointments for minor burns and sunburns. There is little scientific evidence of the effectiveness or safety of Aloe vera extracts for either cosmetic or medicinal purposes.

Aloe vera is known for its anti-inflammatory benefits and has historically been used to treat wounds and burns. While it won’t magically make your sunburn go away, aloe vera will provide instant cooling, soothing relief. Aloe moisturizes skin, reduces inflammation and redness, and even stimulates collagen production, which helps aid in the healing process. We recommend stocking up on lots of great SPF and aloe vera products to keep your skin in prime condition. Below, find our favorite aloe vera gels.

Aloe vera plant is often a stemless or sometimes very short-stemmed juicy plant that grows around 60–100 cm (24–39 inches) in height and the offsets spread out wide. The leaves of this plant are thick and fleshy and the color varies from green to gray-green. Some varieties of this plant have white flecks on the upper and lower portions of the stem surfaces. The margin of the leaves is like a saw-tooth and the flowers bloom during the summer. This plant can be easily grown both, indoors and outdoors.

Ingredients

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Aloe Vera), Glycerol, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Leptospermum Scoparium (Manuka) Mel, Viola tricolor (violet) hydrosol water*, Water and Glycerin and Calanthe Discolor Extract and Xanthan Gum (Orchistem), Malus Domestica Fruit Cell Culture Extract (and) Xanthan Gum (and) Glycerin (and) Lecithin (and) Phenoxyethanol (and) Water (Apple Stemcell), Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract & Mentha Spicata Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract & Geranium Maculatum Extract & Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Extract, Phenoxyethanol (and) Ethylhexylglycerin.

Nutritional Value of Aloe Vera

Health Benefit of Aloe Vera

• Burn Injuries – Aloe vera has long been associated with the treatment of burns. With the advent of nuclear power, the U.S. government conducted research on the ability of Aloe vera to treat thermal and radiation burns with the aim of introducing its use into the military. In 1959, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the use of Aloe vera ointment as an over-the-counter medication for healing burns on the skin [3].
• Antimicrobial activity – The incidence of drug resistance is increasing day by day worldwide and it causes major health problems in terms of treatment failure. Numerous studies have shown that Aloe vera and its constituents act as antimicrobial agents [4]. An important study was performed to investigate Aloe vera phytochemical compounds and the antimicrobial activities of its different extracts, and it was found that the maximum antibacterial activities and antifungal activities were observed in acetone extracts compared to aqueous and ethanol extracts.[5] In another study on Aloe vera, the serial dilution method revealed that a high concentration (1/10) inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, while moderate concentrations were required to inhibit the growth of Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Salmonella typhi.
• Anti-inflammatory activity – Inflammation is the body’s natural response to wounds and infections. Medicinal plants and their constituents serve as anti-inflammatory agents without any adverse complications. Aloe vera Aloe is one of the best-known natural remedies and can reduce swelling/redness [6]. An important study was performed to evaluate the effects of different types of the extract on carrageenan-induced edema in rat paws; the results showed that the aqueous and chloroform extracts reduced the edema in the hind paw and that the aqueous extract inhibited prostaglandin E2 production from [14C] arachidonic acid.[7] Another study was performed on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice, in which the anti-inflammatory activities of both A. vera and gibberellin were measured, and it was found that both equally inhibited inflammation in a dose-response manner.
• Antioxidant activity – Free radical production is balanced through the antioxidative defense system of our body,[8] and any alteration occurring between the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and its neutralization by antioxidant defenses[9,10] causes oxidative stress, which plays a role in the pathogenesis of diseases. Medicinal plants contain various types of constituents, such as vitamins, amino acids, carbohydrates, and phenolic compounds, and these compounds are active in controlling or neutralizing ROS. Earlier studies supported the role of ROS in cancer development, and dietary antioxidants and endogenous antioxidants appear to be vital as cancer-preventive agents through the neutralization of ROS.[11,12] In this context, Aloe vera with its potent antioxidant activities can be used for disease management [13].
• Surgical Wound Healing – Aloe vera has been reported to accelerate postoperative wound healing in periodontal flap surgery [14]. Conversely, a randomized controlled trial involving women with complications of wound healing after gynecological surgery found that the mean healing time in the conventional care group (53 days) was significantly shorter (p < .003) than in the Aloe vera gel group (83 days; [15]. The results of the trial must be interpreted with caution, as only 21 of 40 women completed the study and more patients were lost to follow-up from the gauze group (n = 12) than the Aloe vera group (n = 5). An intention-to-treat analysis was not performed (meaning that patients lost to follow-up were excluded from the analysis), which potentially introduces significant bias into the results.
• Laxative – Aloe vera latex is commonly used in the treatment of constipation (16); the laxative effect of the anthraquinone glycosides found in Aloe vera latex is well established (17). In a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial of 28 healthy adults, aloin was reported to have a laxative effect compared to a placebo that was stronger than the stimulant laxative phenolphthalein (18). In subjects with chronic constipation, a novel preparation containing Aloe vera, celandine, and psyllium was found to improve a range of constipation indicators (bowel movement frequency, consistency of stools, and laxative dependence) in a 28-day double-blind trial
• Diabetes Mellitus – Some evidence in humans and animals suggests that Aloe vera is able to alleviate the chronic hyperglycemia and perturbed lipid profile that are characteristic of DM, which are major risk factors for cardiovascular complications in the disease. Diabetes mellitus is a major endocrine/metabolic disorder and also a major problem worldwide. Several plants and their constituents, such as ginger and gingerol, have proved to be therapeutically useful in the management of diabetes.[19] Aloe vera shows a role in the management of diabetes and its associated symptoms [20]. Studies in support of the potency of Aloe vera have reported that the use of Aloe gum increases glucose tolerance in diabetic rats and normal rats,[21] and another study concluded that Aloe contains a hypoglycemic agent that lowers the blood glucose, but the exact mechanism is not known yet.[22]
• Metastatic Cancer – The concomitant oral administration of 1 mL twice a day of Aloe vera tincture (10% Aloe vera and 90% alcohol) and 20 mg/day of melatonin compared to melatonin alone was studied in 50 patients with locally advanced or metastatic solid tumors for whom no other effective standard therapy was available. In the group treated with Aloe vera and melatonin combined, 12 of 24 patients had their disease stabilized compared to only 7 of 26 patients in the melatonin-only group. In addition, the percentage of individuals surviving 1 year was significantly higher with Aloe vera plus melatonin compared with melatonin treatment alone (23).
• Antitumor effect – Tumor development and progressions constitute a multistep process including genetic and epigenetic changes.[24,25] Aloe vera and its constituents have a vital effect on the control of tumor development, through the modulation of genetic pathways. An important study was performed to investigate the antitumor activity of Aloe vera against stage-2 skin carcinogenesis induced by 7,12-Dimethylbenz[a] anthracene (DMBA) and Croton tiglium (croton) oil; the results revealed that compared to 100% incidence of tumor development in group I (DMBA + croton oil only), the incidence of tumors decreased to 50%, 60%, and 40% in groups II (DMBA + croton oil + topical Aloe vera gel), III (DMBA + croton oil + oral Aloe vera extract), and IV (DMBA + croton oil + topical Aloe vera gel + oral Aloe vera extract) respectively.[26]
• Antiulcer effect – Various factors such as food ingredients, stress, Helicobacter pylori, smoking, NSAIDs, and drugs are responsible for gastric ulcers. Aloe vera and its constituents including polysaccharides, anthraquinones, and other valuable components can act significantly toward the inhibition of peptic ulcers by controlling gastric secretion. An important study in support of the antiulcer activity of Aloe vera has shown that the mean ulcer index of the control group was 50 ± 3.5, whereas the mean ulcer index of the Aloe vera-treated group was 20 ± 1.79 and the mean ulcer index of the standard omeprazole-treated group was 10 ± 1.96.[27] Another study in support of Aloe vera reported that sucralfate and Aloe vera treatment in the ulcer groups showed reduced gastric inflammation, enhanced epithelial cell proliferation, elongated gastric glands, and reduced ulcer sizes.[28]

Aloe vera has been studied in clinical (human) trials for diabetic foot ulcers and dental plaque, but there’s not enough scientific evidence to show whether aloe vera is helpful for these conditions. A 2009 review article examined data from a mix of laboratory, animal, and clinical trials and concluded that more research is necessary to explore aloe’s clinical effectiveness for a number of different skin conditions.[rx]

• Anti-aging effect – Medicinal plants including Aloe vera have shown significant anti-aging effects [29]. However, the exact mechanism behind such effects is not fully understood. An earlier study showed the anti-aging effect of Aloe vera to be tied to the production of collagen and elastin fibers, which make the skin more elastic and less wrinkled.[30]
• Role of Aloe vera in dentistry – Medicinal plants and their constituents are applied in dental management due to their antibacterial and wound-healing activities. Aloe vera is very useful in the treatment of gum diseases including gingivitis and periodontitis.[31] A study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of Aloe vera mouth rinse on plaque accumulation and gingivitis (in the experimental setting), and it was observed that mouthwash containing Aloe vera products led to a significant reduction of plaque and gingivitis; however, the effect was less than that of chlorhexidine.[32]
• Skin protection and hydration activity – Natural products from plants are effective in skin protection [33] as they are rich sources of antioxidants. Dietary supplementation with vitamins, minerals, or essential fatty acids, improves skin conditions.[34] In this context, various plants such as Nigella sativa, turmeric, and Aloe vera are effective in skin protection as they are rich sources of antioxidants and vitamins, which are essential health-maintaining components and can also neutralize the effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
• Improves Digestion – The adaptogenic properties of aloe vera are beneficial for proper digestion. It ensures better nutrient absorption and also eliminates harmful elements through smooth excretion. A healthy digestive process positively affects your thoughts and actions, thus promoting overall health. Dr. Meika Foster, University of Sydney, Australia, in her study reports that aloe vera latex has amazing laxative effects. [35] Thus, it cures irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and keeps constipation, piles, and other gastrointestinal conditions from damaging your system. Aloe vera has compounds called polysaccharides that have the ability to cure a host of digestive disorders and ulcers. Ulcers are one of the most prominent consequences of digestive problems that are effectively cured by this plant extract. Many studies have proven that it cures issues like Crohn’s disease, peptic ulcers, and other digestive tract disorders. If you suffer from ulcers and consume aloe vera extract for at least 3 – 4 weeks, you will surely notice positive results.
• Effect on estrogen status – Isolated emodin and aloe-emodin from A. vera gel specifically suppress breast cancer cell proliferation by targeting estrogen receptor-α protein stability through distinct mechanisms, which suggests a possible application of anthraquinones in preventing breast cancer cell proliferation through estrogen receptor-α inhibition.[³⁶ ]A. vera gel also helps to maintain ovarian steroid status in polycystic ovary-like condition wherein steroidogenesis altered and disturbed estrogen-testosterone ratio.[^38]
• Antihyperlipidemic activity – A. vera is known for its antihyperlipidemic property wherein it has beneficial effects on the prevention of fatty streak development and may help to reduce the development of atherosclerosis through modification of risk factors. [^39] A. vera leaf gel efficacy has been checked in hyperlipidemic type 2 diabetic patients: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial wherein it reduced total cholesterol and LDL levels significantly.[^40] A recent study also demonstrated that administration of phytosterols isolated from A. vera gel reduces visceral fat mass and improves hyperglycemia in Zucker diabetic fatty rats.[⁸²]
• Boosts Immunity – Beverages made with aloe vera juice possess natural detoxifying properties that effectively cleanse the digestive system and the circulatory system. As the absorption level of nutrients accelerates, it results in better blood circulation and also improves health. When the blood is oxygen-rich, it automatically provides nutrients within the cells more proficiently. These healthy cells ensure your body’s ability to ward off infections, thereby strengthening your immune system. It has the capability to neutralize harmful bacteria and its rejuvenating properties work within your body to keep it fresh and active throughout the day.
• Inhibits Cancerous Growth – Aloe vera contains some effective macrophages that produce huge volumes of nitric oxide, which has antitumor potential. In naturopathy, there are innumerable methods of cancer prevention and the aloe vera-based has proven to be one of the most successful ones. Many studies have shown that these antitumor and immunomodulatory properties are due to the presence of polysaccharides in aloe vera. [43] However, some experts say that, when used alone, it may not be very effective in advanced cases, so a combination of herbs like spirulina, cat’s claw, and therapies like intravenous vitamin C should also be included. [4] It is always advisable to start any kind of cancer treatment after consulting a physician.
• Heals Side Effects of Radiotherapy – During cancer treatment, radiotherapy is inevitable in most cases. Cancer patients often experience uncomfortable side effects due to radiotherapy. According to a study cited in Radiation Oncology, aloe vera application helps prevent acute skin side effects in patients treated with radiotherapy for breast cancer. [44] It also accelerates healing. If you drink aloe juice in such conditions, it will also help you in healing the radiation burns.
• Skin Care – Aloe has been used for skin ailments since ancient times. The pure inner gel extracted from the aloe leaf is the best natural remedy for skin abrasions and it also helps diminish the symptoms of aging skin conditions. Many skincare and personal care products, toiletries, and cosmetics include aloe extracts. In fact, if you have its plant at home, simply tear a small part of the leaf, take the gel and apply it in the raw form on your face. This therapy will prove to be far better and more effective than many expensive skin creams on the market. Most people prefer drinking its juice, which also enhances skin health, as the properties of the plant work internally. It also helps in curing stings, rashes, and psoriasis. Journal of Dermatological Treatment says that the topical application of aloe vera gel combined with tretinoin is extremely useful in the treatment of mild and moderate acne vulgaris. [45] Another study has also proved the ability of aloe vera to cure suntan and sunburn. [46]
• Hair Care – Aloe vera has proven to be an excellent option for promoting hair growth naturally. The hair products that contain it are essential to retaining voluminous and healthy hair. You can apply its gel to the entire scalp and hair to treat hair loss as it has an enzyme that is beneficial for stimulating hair growth. Aloe vera shampoo improves blood circulation and keeps you away from stress and mental strain. In fact, it has anti-inflammatory properties that effectively treat androgenetic alopecia or male pattern baldness. [47] If you use it regularly as a shampoo and conditioner, you are sure to prevent premature hair loss.
• Reduces Arthritis Pain – Aloe is noted for its amazing anti-inflammatory properties that work instantly on the pain and swelling resulting from arthritis. Its juice is also extremely effective in calming the swelling and inflammation that are closely associated with arthritis. In fact, topical application, drinking aloe juice, or eating aloe vera, its pills, or capsules all show positive results in curing arthritis pain.
• Relieves Joint & Muscle Pain – The anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera help it to work efficiently on joint and muscle pains. Applying aloe gel topically eases inflammation of the joints. Eating aloe vera, its capsules, or drinking its juice can reduce inflammation throughout the body, thus proving to be revitalizing. In some studies, it has been reported that people who regularly consume aloe vera juice for at least two weeks experience a significant improvement in inflammation issues. However, it works efficiently when your diet contains less intake of red meat, sugar, milk, fried foods, and white flour.
• Heals Wounds – Aloe has been considered a natural healer ever since it was discovered thousands of years ago. According to a study by Dr. [48]Amar Surjushe, Department of Dermatology, Grant Medical College and Sir J J Group of Hospitals, Mumbai, India, “Alexander the Great, and Christopher Columbus used it to treat soldiers’ wounds”.  If used externally, it is the best option for dressing wounds. In fact, in many cases, it is seen that aloe vera works like magic, even in the most serious of emergency room wound cases. The juice instantly seals the wound by drawing the flow of blood to the wound, thus enhancing the process of wound healing. In many studies, it has been proven that aloe effectively treats third-degree burn victims and it restores the burned skin faster. [49] It is also known that a large amount of aloe vera gel can heal wounds of gunshots and tissue injuries.
• Cures Menstrual Problems – The extract of aloe vera has shown to be an excellent stimulant of the uterus and eating aloe vera or drinking its juice is very beneficial during painful menstruation.
• Alleviates Nausea – Nausea can occur due to a host of reasons, including consuming contaminated food, having a virus or flu, or even due to chemotherapy treatments. Oftentimes, feelings of nausea originate from disorders in the stomach or in the digestive tract. Aloe vera juice is excellent for a sick stomach and makes you feel better by bringing a calm feeling throughout the body.
• Reduces Blood Sugar Level – Eating aloe vera pills has beneficial effects on reducing blood sugar levels. A study on the effects of aloe vera on diabetic patients, published in Phytomedicine, suggests that its consumption helps lower blood sugar and triglyceride levels. [50]
• Prevents Oxidative Stress – Aloe vera gel is rich in vitamins like vitamin B12, B1, B2, B6, and vitamin A, E, C, niacin, and folic acid. These vitamins are required for a proper functioning of the human body. The body’s defensive system is thus kept intact by regularly eating aloe vera capsules or drinking its juice.
• Soothes Acid Reflux – Acid reflux is often wrongly known as a disease, while it is actually just a symptom that involves heartburn and discomfort. Initially, you can try the natural remedy of consuming aloe vera juice, which usually works effectively and initiates proper functioning. However, you should try to avoid eating fried and processed food to evade the problem altogether. A study published in Elsevier’s Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, aloe vera can provide an effective treatment against gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). [51]
• Lowers Cholesterol – Aloe vera gel, when used internally, automatically improves blood quality and thus helps in re-balancing the other components in it like cholesterol and glucose. [52] It effectively lowers cholesterol and total triglyceride content.
• Improves Cardiovascular Function – Aloe vera extract accelerates the supply of blood and purifies it at the same time. [53] This blood accelerates the delivery of oxygen to the organs in the body, thereby maximizing their functionality. A 2011 study shows that aloe vera gel can also prevent myocardial oxidative stress. [54]
• Cures Gum Diseases – Dental and gum diseases can also be cured by aloe vera. You can try out this natural remedy at home; put some aloe vera powder on your toothbrush, then brush normally. [55] The aloe vera powder will soothe your gums and cure any kind of infection or bruises. Aloe vera juice can also help in keeping the gums healthy. Just gargle the liquid around your mouth before swallowing. Also, try to increase your intake of vitamin D. Both these measures will be enough to get your gums back in shape within a few months. A study published in the Ethiopian Journal of Health Sciences confirms its use as an effective mouthwash and its ability to cure dental plaque. [56]
• Preserves Food – A thin layer of aloe vera gel can act as a natural food preservative. In an experiment, an aloe preservative was able to keep grapes fresh for more than 35 days. Furthermore, a 2014 study cited in Cambridge Core shows that the pure aqueous extract of aloe vera can inhibit the growth of certain microbes. [57] This extract when coated on tomatoes helped delay ripening and was effective in increasing its overall shelf-life.
• Boosts Blood Oxygenation – Blood oxygenation benefits the supply of CO2 (carbon dioxide) to vital organs. In some studies, it has been reported that aloe vera aids in blood oxygenation.

In 2002, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a ruling that required manufacturers to remove aloe from over-the-counter laxative products because of a lack of safety data. [rx]

Aloe Vera Home Recipes/ Treatment

Aloe is used topically (applied to the skin) and orally. Topical use of aloe is promoted for acne, lichen planus (a very itchy rash on the skin or in the mouth), oral submucous fibrosis, burning mouth syndrome, burns, and radiation-induced skin toxicity. Oral use of aloe is promoted for weight loss, diabetes, hepatitis, and inflammatory bowel disease (a group of conditions caused by gut inflammation that includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis).

1. Moisturizes Skin

Aloe vera gel has been touted by many as their go-to moisturizer. It has shown miraculous effects on oily and acne-prone skin.

How To Use

Aloe vera gel can be directly extracted from the plant and applied to your skin. Alternatively, there are plenty of ready-to-use aloe gels available in the market. But if you are opting for them, make sure that the aloe vera gel in it constitutes 90 to 100 percent of the product.

An Aloe vera leaf

What You Have To Do

1. Peel off the outer layer of the aloe leaf to get to the gel.

3. Scoop out the gel and store it in a container.
4. Gently massage the gel on your face. Store the rest in the refrigerator to prolong its shelf life.

Aloe vera increases the water content in your skin and leaves it hydrated without making it greasy [58].

2. Reduces Acne And Helps Lighten Blemishes

The aloe gel can work wonders on your skin by reducing acne and clearing the blemishes and scars that get left behind.

Aloe vera mixed with a few drops of lemon juice can help in the reduction of acne and acne scars. Adding lemon juice is important because lemon possesses skin lightening properties that can help with blemishes [59].

• 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel
• 2 to 3 drops lemon juice

What You Have To Do

1. Add the lemon juice to the aloe vera gel and combine them together.

2. Massage the gel on your face. This is best used as an overnight treatment.

Alternative: You can even use a branded aloe vera soap as well.

Aloe vera is an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent because of the presence of gibberellins and auxins. This helps reduce your acne. It also contains polysaccharides that stimulate the growth of new cells. This speeds up the healing process for acne and prevents scarring [60].

3. Helps With Sunburns

Aloe vera is widely used as an after-sun treatment because it is soothing and reduces inflammation.

Aloe vera gel can be applied directly to the sunburned area.

Aloe vera, owing to its anti-inflammatory properties, reduces the redness brought on by exposure to UV rays and soothes the skin [61]. It acts on the epithelial skin layer and provides a protective layer to the skin for retaining moisture. Since aloe vera contains a lot of antioxidants and nutritional properties, the skin is able to prevent the moisture from escaping, which in turn heals the sunburn quickly.

4. Heals External Wounds And Insect Bites

Aloe vera is anti-inflammatory, which makes it effective against wounds and insect bites.

Aloe vera gel can be used as a topical treatment for small cuts, bruises, and insect bites. It can also be used as an aftershave lotion to soothe irritated skin.

5. Reduces Stretch Marks

With the passing of age, our skin expands and contracts just like elastic. When the skin stretches very far, like during the pregnancy or due to rapid weight gain, the elasticity of the skin gets damaged, which results in ugly stretch marks. These marks are nothing but small tears on the skin layers, which can be healed with the regular use of aloe vera soap.

6. Promotes Hair Growth

Aloe vera is not just great for your skin; it also has a number of benefits for your hair. The topical application of aloe vera can help promote hair growth.

Aloe vera, when used along with castor oil, can help with hair growth.

• 2 tablespoons aloe vera gel
• 1 tablespoon castor oil

What You Have To Do

1. Mix the aloe vera gel and the castor oil.

3. Gently massage the concoction into your scalp.
4. Keep it on overnight, and rinse with a gentle shampoo.

Aloe vera removes dead cells from the scalp, which allows your hair to grow [62].

7. Reduces Dandruff

Aloe vera is a widely used ingredient in many commercial shampoos and conditioners. This is because it works wonders for dandruff and dandruff-related problems such as an itchy scalp.

Dandruff can be caused by a number of reasons. An oily scalp, accumulation of dead cells, or even an infection can be the cause. And aloe helps out on all fronts. It removes dead cells from your scalp that can clog your hair. It also has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which fight against infections and soothe the scalp.

8. Maintains pH Balance Of The Scalp

When the pH balance of your hair is disrupted, it can lead to endless hair problems. Aloe can help maintain the pH balance of your hair.

The pH of your scalp is 5.5, which makes it fall on the acidic side. A lot of commercial hair products, especially shampoos, contain surfactants that can alter the pH of your scalp and hair because they are alkaline in nature. This can result in damaged and unruly hair [63]. Aloe Vera helps restore your scalp’s pH balance, which promotes healthier and better hair.

9. Conditions Hair

Aloe vera can put even the best conditioners to shame. It is moisturizing in nature, and hence, strengthens your hair and adds shine

You can use aloe vera gel as a conditioner right after you shampoo, or even as a leave-in treatment.

Aloe vera contains proteolytic enzymes that remove dead cells [64]. It helps in cell regeneration, which helps repair your hair. It also infuses your hair with moisture, leaving it smooth and glossy.

10. Reduces Inflammation

Consuming aloe vera juice can help reduce inflammation.

Aloe vera juice is available commercially. But if you have a plant, there is no reason why you cannot make fresh juice on your own.

• 1 aloe vera leaf
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon honey

What You Have To Do

1. Cut off a leaf of aloe vera.

2. Peel off the outer layer. Make sure that you remove the aloe latex, which is the yellow sap that lies underneath the outer leaf.

4. Scoop out the gel, and carefully wash to remove any residual sap.
5. Place the gel in a blender. Add the water and the honey, and blend to combine all the ingredients.

One of the causes of inflammation is oxidative damage, which is caused due to the free radicals in your body that damage your cells. It is common knowledge that aloe vera is rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants bind with the free radicals and help manage inflammation [65].

11. Eases Heartburn And Acid Reflux

Aloe vera juice has been used in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD causes symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain, and trouble with swallowing, and aloe juice is an effective cure.

Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties which soothe the stomach lining and the esophagus. It also helps fight against pathogens that cause gastrointestinal problems [66].

12. Reduces Cholesterol And Regulates Blood Sugar

Although it is still in its preliminary stages, research has shown that aloe vera can help reduce cholesterol. It also helps in maintaining blood sugar, which is why it is often used as a supplement by diabetics.

Clinical trials have shown that aloe vera can reduce the concentration of cholesterol in your vital organs [67]. It can also reduce blood glucose levels.

13. Maintains Oral Health

There have been claims that aloe vera can be as effective as any toothpaste when it comes to maintaining your oral hygiene. With four ingredients, this gel-based toothpaste with aloe vera is great for your teeth. You can make it in less than five minutes, and the benefits of Aloe Vera gel make the toothpaste soothing and refreshing, which promotes dental health, helps moisturize your gums and treating wounds in the mouth.

You can make aloe vera toothpaste at home.

What You Need

• 3 tsp. of Aloe Vera gel (freshly extracted)
• 5 tsp. of baking soda
• 5 tsp. of vegetable glycerin
• Freshly chopped mint
• Eucalyptus oil or Peppermint essential oil
• Glass Jar
• Plastic container

What You have to Do

1. Find some fresh Aloe Vera. You can consider buying Aloe Vera gel, but freshly extracted Aloe Vera gel is more potent and has no added chemicals in it. Proceed to extract the gel from the Aloe Vera plant.

2. To extract the gel, you need to chop the Aloe Vera’s spikes and slit the fleshy parts open using a sharp knife.

3. Now, proceed to scrape the gel off using a knife or a spoon.

4. Beat the transparent gel to a pulp with the back of the spoon or the flat side of the knife.

5. Chop the mint leaves up finely. Alternatively, you can consider using some eucalyptus essential oil or peppermint essential oil.

6. Now add the baking soda, glycerin, mint or the eucalyptus essential oil to the glass jar and mix well.

8. Let the mixture settle down and store it in the glass jar, or use a plastic container if you travel often.
9. Your Aloe Vera toothpaste is ready to use.

Aloe vera gel, owing to its antibacterial properties, can help fight against cavity-causing bacteria. It also helps with diseases that cause gum inflammation, particularly periodontitis [68].

Aloe vera boosts your immune system, which indirectly helps your body fight against tumors. Studies have also shown that it can shrink the size of tumors and increase the survival rate of those with cancer [69].

or

References

1. • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aloe_vera
   • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4557234/
   • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92765/
   • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4488101/
   • https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/aloe-vera
   • https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/aloe-vera
   • https://books.google.com/books/about/Aloe_Vera.html?id=nfJCulLeVrMC
   • https://books.google.com.bd/books/about/Aloe_Vera.html?id=nfJCulLeVrMC&redir_esc=y

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