Aloe vera is a succulent, cactus-like plant species of the genus Aloe. A perennial plant, it originates from the Arabian Peninsula and grows wild in tropical, semi-tropical, and arid climates worldwide. It is known for its fleshy, pointed green leaves, which can grow as long as 19 inches in length. The margin of the leaf is serrated and has small white teeth.

Aloe vera has been used medicinally for thousands of years. Studies have proven the antiseptic, anti inflammatory, antiviral and antifungal properties of this beneficial plant. In Chinese medicine, it’s often recommended in the treatment of fungal diseases. It was clinically used in the 1930’s for the treatment of radiotherapy burns to the skin and mucous membranes. Aloe vera is used both topically and orally.

Aloe vera gel is blended with water to create aloe vera juice. Aloe juice is full of nutrients and is an excellent source of Vitamins A, C and E, beta-carotene, folic acid, calcium, zinc, vitamin B12, folic acid and choline.. It also contains high levels of magnesium, a mineral and vital nutrient for nerve and muscles. Magnesium helps the body with more than 300 different enzyme reactions, including those that regulate blood pressure and heart rhythm. Aloe also contains 19 out of 20 the essential amino acids required by the body to aid in smooth functioning of its enzyme system.

There are two types of aloe juice: whole leaf (made from entire leaves, including the rind) or inner fillet (made using the inner solids only). Both varieties deliver amazing benefits, but testing has shown that the whole leaf variety is slightly more effective.

IMMUNE BOOSTING

When taken orally, aloe vera is immune boosting. The gel contains powerful antioxidants belonging to a large family of substances known as polyphenols. These polyphenols, along with several other compounds, aid in inhibiting the growth of certain bacteria that can cause infections. They also help fight free radicals. This lowers oxidative stress on the body and reduces the risk of chronic conditions. Additionally, the bradykinase in aloe vera helps stimulate the immune system and kills infections.  The leaves also contain significant amounts of the polysaccharide gel acemannan, which has demonstrated both anti-cancer and antiviral activity.

ORAL HEALTH

Aloe vera is also an effective, all-natural mouthwash. In a study published in the Ethiopian Journal of Health Sciences, researchers found aloe vera extract to be a safe and effective alternative to chemical-based mouthwashes. The plant’s natural ingredients have been shown to block plaque and can also provide relief for bleeding or swollen gums. Other clinically proven studies have showed that mouthwashes containing aloe vera have shown a remarkable reduction in gingivitis and plaque accumulation after its use.

Aloe vera is also used in treatments for oral submucous fibrosis and burning mouth syndrome.

DIGESTIVE HEALTH

Aloe vera contains several compounds which may be useful in treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)  The plant’s low toxicity makes it a safe and gentle remedy. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe irritated tissues in the esophagus and stomach. Additionally, aloe vera juice promotes healing of the gastrointestinal tract lining.

Aloe vera is also a natural laxative. Juice made from the whole leaf is the most effective. A team of Nigerian scientists conducted animal studies using rats and found that gel made from typical aloe vera houseplants relieved constipation. Another study found that 30 milliliters of aloe vera juice twice a day decreased the level of discomfort in 33 patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Both aloe vera gel and juice may be a potential treatment for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). This condition involves the inflammation of the intestine, leading to pain and other issues. Aloe has been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect on the intestine.

LOWERS BLOOD SUGAR

Aloe vera is a traditional remedy for diabetes mellitus in many parts of the world. Some evidence in humans and animals suggests that aloe vera is able to alleviate chronic hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and elevated lipid profile that are characteristic of diabetes mellitus. A clinical trial revealed that ingesting two tablespoons of aloe vera juice per day lowers blood sugar levels in those who have type 2 diabetes.

HAIR AND SKIN CARE

Aloe vera is also a great natural treatment for an itchy scalp. It has nourishing properties, and its vitamins and minerals can keep hair healthy. Because of its antibacterial and antifungal properties, studies indicate that it helps to clear dandruff and rids the scalp of dead cells.

Aloe vera is also great for the skin. Interestingly, the U.S. Pharmacopeia described aloe vera preparations as a skin protectant as early as 1810–1820. It is used in skin lotions, cosmetics, ointments and gels to treat minor burns, skin abrasions, insect bites, and acne. It is also used to treat lichen planus, an itchy rash on the skin and in the mouth, burns, and radiation-induced skin toxicity. A randomized, double-blind study involving 60 patients with chronic psoriasis revealed a cure rate in the aloe vera group to be 83%, compared to only 7% in the placebo group. There were no relapses reported at the 12-month follow-up. Aloe’s polysaccharide components also provide and sustain moisture in skin tissue. One study found that consuming aloe vera improved collagen production and reduced the appearance of wrinkles in a group of women over age 40. According to the results, the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid increased by approximately two-fold and 1.5-fold.

Check with your health care provider before taking aloe vera. If you are taking blood sugar-lowering medications, including insulin, you should be monitored closely by your health care provider when taking aloe vera. Do not take aloe vera if you are pregnant or nursing.