There was a time when an aloe vera plant in the windowsill and macrame curtains were the decorative touches to every kitchen. While that’s not necessarily true today, aloe vera is still a very popular plant to add greenery in the home. The reason is the health benefits of aloe vera. Whether it’s emergency treatment for a burn or simply as an attractive succulent to add greenery, these plants have a lot to offer.
You’ll heal wounds quicker with aloe vera.
Aloe vera contains aloin, which is antibacterial, antiviral and analgesic, which makes it excellent for burns and scrapes. It not only takes the pain out of the injury, but also disinfects it. The hormones gibberellins and auxins it contains help improve wound healing and reduce inflammation. The thick gel that’s available when a leaf is broken has the anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties that help heal the damaged skin, while disinfecting the area.
You can improve your complexion with aloe vera.
Aloe vera contains compounds that help your skin retain the moisture it needs to look its best. They also boost the production of collagen, which slows wrinkling and increases the skin’s elasticity. Use it as a face wash. Break open a leaf and apply it on your skin or if you’re using aloe juice, use a spoonful to slather your skin. It takes a while, but you’ll notice your skin is more youthful and small scars seem to disappear. The amino acids in aloe vera not only treat the dryness, but they also tighten the skin’s pores.
Give your metabolism a boost with aloe vera.
Ingesting aloe vera can help you lose weight and even control your blood sugar levels. Be careful, because too much can act as a laxative due to the anthraquinones. They can increase the water content in the intestines and increase the mucous production, which increases bowel movements or cause diarrhea. Aside from that problem, adding it to soups or smoothies can add nutrients to your diet and increase your metabolism.
- The anthraquinone that act as a laxative can also be antiviral. If you’re suffering from herpes or even influenza, aloe vera can help your body fight the viral infection. Putting aloe vera or a mixture of aloe and tomatoes on a cold sore twice a day can help it heal far faster and take away the sting.
- Some studies show that aloe vera may be helpful in preventing tumors or cancer. That help comes from the polysaccharides in the plant. It may help protect the cells and slow the formation of tumors.
- Gargle with aloe vera juice for the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. The vitamin C it contains can also help. Mix the gel with water and help with dental issues like gingivitis or halitosis.
- Use aloe vera on the lips during winter to help heal cracked dry skin or protect the delicate skin under the eyes with a light wash made with aloe vera.
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