Harnessing the healing power of Aloe Vera
Aloe is one of the most beneficial healing plants! It has been used for centuries for its versatile therapeutic properties, garnering immense popularity as a traditional medicine.
In this blog, we will explore the wonders of aloe, including its numerous health benefits, ways to incorporate it into your health routine, precautions to consider, and three delightful aloe-based recipes.
What is Aloe?
Scientifically known as aloe vera, aloe is a perennial plant native to arid regions. Its thick, fleshy leaves contain a gel-like substance that is full of beneficial compounds, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants—lending to aloe’s exceptional healing properties.
The benefits of Aloe
From top to toe and inside and out, aloe’s benefits make it a miracle plant. Let’s look at some of those benefits.
Skin Health
Aloe vera is a common ingredient in skincare products due to its exceptional moisturizing properties. It can soothe burns, including sunburn, promote wound healing, soothe insect bites, alleviate inflammation, and combat acne, leaving your skin radiant and rejuvenated.
Hair Care
The gel in aloe vera is great for your hair, moisturizing and conditioning, reducing dandruff, and promoting healthy hair growth.
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Scalp health
Aloe vera gel helps nourish and soothe the scalp, promoting hair growth. It not only moisturizes the scalp, but it also soothes scalp irritation, balances scalp pH, and cleanses the scalp.
For scalp health, you can collect fresh aloe vera gel from the plant (we’ll tell you how a little later in this blog) and apply it directly. Massage gently for a few minutes to ensure even distribution, leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
You could also combine the aloe vera gel with a carrier oil like jojoba oil, olive oil, or Viva Naturals extra-virgin cold-pressed coconut oil, which is not only great for your scalp but also a wonderful ingredient in DIY facemasks and ideal for use in cooking.
Incorporating aloe vera into your scalp care routine will help you nurture a healthier scalp, promote hair growth, and result in vibrant, healthy hair.
Digestive Aid
Consuming aloe vera gel or juice may help ease digestive issues like indigestion, bloating, and constipation. It has a gentle laxative effect that aids in regulating bowel movements and supporting a healthy gut.
Immune Support
Aloe vera is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that boost immune function and protect against oxidative stress. Regularly consuming aloe may strengthen your body's natural defenses and enhance overall well-being.
How to use Aloe
There are many benefits to using aloe, and it's important to know how to use it most effectively.
Topical Application
Extract the gel from fresh aloe leaves and apply it directly to your skin. You can use it as a natural moisturizer, for sunburn relief, or to treat minor cuts, abrasions, and insect bites.
Aloe Gel or Juice
Consuming aloe vera gel or juice, like Lily of the Desert Aloe Vera Juice, is one way to reap its internal benefits. Start with small amounts to gauge your tolerance, and gradually increase the dosage.
DIY Recipes
Incorporating aloe vera into homemade beauty and wellness recipes allows you to harness its power in various forms, such as face masks, hair treatments, and herbal teas. Look out for our recipes for each of these later in this blog.
Dosage and contraindications
When ingesting aloe, begin with small quantities (around 1 – 2 tablespoons gel) and gradually increase the dosage. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional or a qualified herbalist to determine the appropriate dosage for your specific needs.
While aloe vera offers numerous benefits, please remain aware of any potential contraindications. Some people may be allergic to aloe or experience digestive discomfort, such as diarrhea when consuming large amounts. Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and those with certain medical conditions or taking specific medications should consult their healthcare provider before using aloe internally.
Preparing Aloe for medicinal use
To prepare aloe vera, select mature leaves from a healthy plant. Beware of those spikey spines! Carefully remove the outer skin to expose the gel inside. Rinse the gel to remove the yellow sap, which can cause digestive irritation. If you don’t use all of the gel harvested, store what is left in an airtight container in the refrigerator for optimal freshness and longevity.
Growing your own Aloe
Aloe vera can easily be grown at home, meaning you have a fresh supply whenever you need it – like nature’s dispensary on tap.
Aloe vera plants thrive in warm climates and require minimal care apart from ample sunlight in well-drained soil. Water sparingly.
Now, as promised, here are those three Aloe Vera recipes!
Aloe recipe for hair care
What you will need:
2 tablespoons freshly extracted aloe gel
1 tablespoon coconut oil
a few drops of lavender essential oil. One of my favorites is NOW Essential Lavender Oil.
Instructions:
Mix well and apply this nourishing blend to your hair, focusing on the roots and tips. Leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Enjoy softer, shinier hair and a healthier scalp.
Aloe recipe for skin care
What you will need:
2 tablespoons freshly extracted aloe gel,
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
Instructions:
Mix the ingredients in a glass bowl. Apply the mask evenly to your cleansed face and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. Enjoy your fresh, glowing complexion.
Aloe Vera Tea
Brew a cup of your favorite herbal tea.
Peppermint for digestive aid, chamomile for relaxation, or ginkgo biloba for well-being. To read all about the benefits of ginkgo biloba, read our blog.
Allow your tea to cool slightly, and then add 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel. You could add a squeeze of lemon juice and honey or stevia if you like. Stir well and enjoy.
Incorporating aloe vera into your healthcare and hair and skin care routine will unlock many healing benefits. Whether you choose to apply it topically, consume it internally, or experiment with homemade recipes, aloe vera is a plant ally that offers overall well-being!
Please always consult your healthcare practitioner before trying any new supplements, as some of them may react with medications or existing health conditions.