What are the health benefits of Aloe Vera?
Aloe Vera, a native plant to Africa, is part of the Lily family. There are over 240 different varieties of the Aloe Vera plant. The health benefits of Aloe Vera have been known since ancient times when the plant was used for the purpose of treating burns and infections. The aloe vera plant is comprised mainly of water along with essential oils, amino acids, vitamins, minerals and glycoproteins.

Since the 1930’s the health benefits of Aloe Vera have been promoted in modern medicine. The clear gel of the interior of the plan is beneficial in healing exterior wounds, such as burns, by providing a protective layer over the skin and wound. Aloe Vera houseplants are extremely popular for providing a quick and easily accessible first aid treatment for minor burns and injuries. Aloe Vera ointments are quite popular for treating sunburns, due to the fact that it is known to immediately sooth and reduce healing time. Additionally, the gel from the Aloe Vera plant is a known aid in keeping skin smooth and supple. Aloe Vera is also beneficial in healing acne, eczema and relieving itching caused by insect bites and allergies. Drinks made from the gel of the Aloe Vera plant are reputed to ease such digestive problems as indigestion, colitis and ulcers. Recent studies have also shown that aloe vera may be able to actually assist the body in strengthening its resistance.

The most commonly known side effect of Aloe Vera is its potential for decreasing the body’s supply of potassium with long term use. Individuals who use diuretics and/or oral corticosteroids in combination with Aloe Vera may develop a serious potassium deficiency. Only in very rare cases have there been reports of skin inflammation or itching related to the use of Aloe Vera as a topical treatment.

Aloe Vera is available as a houseplant as well as in various forms of sprays, creams, ointments, lotions, liquids, gels and capsules. Consumers should keep in mind that in order to receive the maximum health benefits of Aloe Vera, the drink or cream they purchase should contain no less than 20% Aloe Vera. Furthermore, when purchasing Aloe Vera juice, consumers should be aware that the majority of the health benefits of Aloe Vera come from the clear gel of the plant, not the exterior. The most beneficial Aloe Vera juice drinks will contain Aloe Vera gel not Aloe Vera latex.