Aloe vera is known as the "first aid plant" and is used to treat a number of skin problems. Learn other health benefits of aloe vera, tips on growing it, and what you need to know when buying it.
Health Benefits of Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is rich in amino acids, minerals, vitamins, enzymes, and other vital ingredients that make it a remarkable remedy to treat many ailments.
Aloe vera gel is well known for treating skin problems, including burns, shingles, and poison ivy. It is a soothing substance that helps relieve pain and itching as well as heal sores and blisters.
Aloe vera juice, made from the gel, is an effective remedy in treating digestive disorders such as heartburn, ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome. Aloe vera is also used to cleanse the colon and detoxify the body.
Aloe vera helps prevent aging skin. It stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, removes dead cells, and can lighten dark spots.
Other benefits of aloe vera include:
- improving blood circulation
- aiding in cell growth
- acting as an antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal agent
- treating arthritis pain
- decreasing cholesterol and triglycerides
- maintaining blood sugar levels.
Buying Aloe Vera Products
When buying aloe vera products, avoid ones that have been processed, which can destroy the health benefits of aloe vera. Buy only 100% stabilized juice or skin products, avoid "whole leaf" products, and avoid ones bottled in clear containers.
Growing Aloe Vera
Growing aloe vera is easy. It can be grown outdoors in areas where there are no, or minimal, freezes and it can be grown indoors. However, indoor plants are not as beneficial as outdoor plants.
Aloe vera plants need well drained soil. If too wet, the roots will rot. Sunlight is important so if you grow it inside, pick a sunny location. If you plant it outside, grow it in sun or partial sun.
The leaves (stems) should have spikes on the edges and the aloe vera plant should be at least 2-3 years old before using.
If you want to get the benefits of aloe vera from drinking its juice, it is recommended to not make your own. The process can be difficult, it can require many aloe vera plants, and it may cause problems like diarrhea if the process is done incorrectly.
Disclaimer
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