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Many people wonder the medical advantages and benefits of using Aloe Vera Gel. This article should help in informing of you of just that!
Where does Aloe Vera Come From?
Aloe vera is a plant species that is speculated to originate in the Mediterranean area of Africa. This plant is also known as the ‘harmonious remedy’ by the Chinese people, the ‘elixir of youth’ by the Russians and the ‘herb/plant of immortality’ by the ancient Egyptians.
Where does it grow?
It now can be found in many warm climates in the U.S. as well as all the islands of the Caribbean and South America.
The Ingredients
The leaf is filled with a gel containing at least 75 nutrients, 20 minerals, 12 vitamins, 18 amino acids, and 200 active enzymes. These compounds have a great benefit and potential in external and internal applications to the body.
Gel from the inside of the leaves of Aloe vera has been used for thousands of years to treat wounds, skin infections, burns, and conditions.
Aloe vera plants produce a number of substances with antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral and antioxidant properties. Vitamins present in Aloe Vera include Vitamin B, A, C, E and folic acid. It also contains calcium, selenium, zinc, magnesium, chromium and magnesium. Peptides found in Aloe Vera help strengthen the immune system.
The compounds found in Aloe Vera are also able to activate the white blood cells necessary to fight against the growth of cancer cells. It enhances the growth of new skin cells and is also able to reduce the appearance of blemishes or scars on the skin. Aloe Vera is able to reduce the appearance of fine lines and skin wrinkles, as well as to help heal sores and lesions found in the mouth.
How much Aloe Vera should you use?
- Creams and gels with Aloe Vera vary in dosage. Some creams for minor burns have just 0.5% aloe vera.
- Psoriasis may contain as much as 70% aloe vera.
- As an oral supplement, aloe vera has no set dose.
- For constipation, some use 100-200 milligrams of aloe juice — or 50 milligrams of aloe extract — daily as needed.
- For diabetes, 1 tablespoon of the gel has been used daily.
- High oral doses of aloe or aloe latex are dangerous.
What are the medical uses and advantages?
This plant can be used to heal and treat a large number of medical conditions, such as skin wounds, blisters, jaundice, sunburn, acne, frostbite, constipation, fungal infections, asthma, heartburn, expelling intestinal worms, conjunctivitis, herpes, skin rashes, hepatitis, cirrhosis, insect bites and eczema. It is also able to help protect the body against radiation received through x-rays. Aloe Vera can rejuvenate dry skin, heal fungal and vaginal infections, heal psoriasis and urticaria, reduce the appearance of warts and reduce rosacea. Those suffering from shingles can also benefit a great deal from using it.
Side Effects of Usage
The side effects of aloe vera are few, and are mostly related to individuals who are allergic to the plant. Aloe vera may cause redness or stinging when applied to the skin. When consumed orally, aloe vera may possibly cause abdominal cramps, either diarrhea or increased constipation, or a red tint to urine color. The laxative effect of aloe vera may cause potassium levels to become low.
Aloe vera is not recommended for pregnancy because of the remote possibility of triggering uterine contractions. It is also not recommended for breastfeeding mothers, because it may cause the baby’s gastrointestinal system to become upset.(And Trust Me, NO ONE WANTS THAT!!!)
May cause electrolyte imbalances in the blood of people who ingest aloe for more than a few days. It can also stain the colon, thus making it difficult to visualize the colon during a colonoscopy. So avoid it for a month prior.
Do not apply topical Aloe Vera to deep cuts or severe burns. People allergic to garlic, onions, and tulips are more likely to be allergic to aloe. High doses of oral aloe are dangerous. Long-term use may increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Don’t take oral aloe if you have intestinal problems, heart disease, hemorrhoids, kidney problems, diabetes, or electrolyte imbalances.
References: www.naturalnews.com, www.webmd.com,www.globalhealingcenter.com, and www.thejakartapost.com
