Aloe Vera: 8 effects, 3 risks& 3 applications of the medicinal plantAloe Vera is an all-rounder. It can be used both internally and externally. Said to provide relief from numerous ailments. We enlighten you about the effective plant.
Aloe Vera – the multi-talent
Aloe vera as a multi-talent
Aloe vera is considered a miracle cure. Thus it is supposed to help with numerous diseases, provide for a young skin appearance and healthy hair. In the plant are supposed to be numerous effective nutrients, yet the plant consists of 99 percent water.
The Desert plant is used for various ailments. Said to help with skin problems such as burns and acne, chronic conditions such as depression and migraines, and even constipation.
However, the valuable active ingredients are not in every aloe vera plant. There are different plant genera, which can sometimes even be harmful to humans. From the internal use of genera like Aloe arborescens is strongly discouraged, as the unpeeled leaves in particular contain substances that are harmful to health.
Therefore, when using aloe vera products or buying aloe vera plants, it is important to consider the genus Aloe Vera Barbadensis Miller take hold. The leaves are about 50 centimeters long, thick and toothed on the wheel. The roundish flowers are yellow to orange in color. Inside the leaves is the leaf pulp, which is better known as aloe vera gel. This is used in numerous body care products.
The aloe vera plant is also known under the name of Desert lily Known. Aloe vera can survive very well in dry areas. It is due to its ability to retain water. Its thick leaves can absorb up to a liter of water. The moisture is stored in the Leaf pulp stored. This is another reason why aloe vera gel is so moisturizing.
While the gel is extracted from the leaf pulp, the aloe vera juice comes from the outer leaf parts. Unlike the transparent gel, this one has a yellow color. The gel is mainly used for external applications. The juice is mainly used for constipation.
Effects of Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is said to help with numerous ailments. Many people are convinced of the healing power of the desert plant. It is said to provide improvement for both internal and external symptoms. Aloe vera is especially known for its effects on the skin. We present the individual areas of application.
For constipation
Aloe vera juice can be helpful for treating digestive problems such as constipation. Aloe vera juice contains anthranoids and the substance aloin. Anthranoids can affect the permeability of the intestinal wall. It allows the intestinal mucosa to absorb less salt and water, so that the salt water accumulates in the intestine and provides a laxative effect. Aloe vera juice should, however, only be used for a limited period of time. To be used for as short a period as possible. In addition, the use of aloe vera as a laxative should be discussed with a doctor beforehand, since it is in this case a Medicines Acts. In conventional aloe vera products, substances such as anthranoids. Aloin does not normally contain. The laxative effect is therefore omitted.
For inflammatory skin diseases
Aloe vera gel for inflammatory skin diseases
The desert plant can be used for various skin conditions. Aloe vera can also be used for sensitive skin types and inflammatory skin diseases. The plant contains many effective nutrients for the skin that nourish, cool and moisturize. Aloe vera contains numerous effective ingredients such as Polysaccharides, salicylic acid, enzymes, amino acids and vitamins. As with any plant, the proportion of the various active ingredients depends on the environmental conditions, such as the nutrient density in the soil and the amount of sunlight.
Among other things, aloe vera gel is recommended for skin diseases such as Acne, neurodermatitis and psoriasis. The gel works anti-inflammatory and antibacterial and can thus quickly alleviate the symptoms of skin diseases of this kind. The polysaccharides it contains also provide the skin with plenty of moisture without clogging the pores. Aloe Vera also contains vitamins A, C and E, which are important for cell protection. Secondary plant substances such as salicylic acid can analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect and are therefore very well recommended for acne.
For sunburn
Aloe vera is also used to treat sun-damaged skin. soothe the skin. A study by the University of Freiburg examined the effect of aloe vera gel on sun damage. Compared it with the effect of conventional cortisone preparations. A study by the University of Freiburg examined the effect of aloe vera gel on sun damage. Compared it with the effect of conventional cortisone preparations. In this case, the gel was able to greatly reduce redness after a 48-hour exposure time. It even showed a better effect than a cortisone preparation with 1 percent hydrocortisone. Aloe vera gel is therefore an excellent alternative to conventional preparations for sunburns.
For wound healing
In addition, aloe vera gel is also suitable for treating wounds. Various studies have already confirmed the wound-healing properties of aloe vera. Among other things, it shows better effects than Vaseline gauze, which is often used to treat wounds. Aloe vera gel regenerates the tie and promotes a optimal healing without the formation of scars.
For insect bites
Aloe vera gel for insect bites
Aloe vera gel can also provide relief from insect bites. The cooling gel can To reduce itching the inflammation to subside. It can be applied directly to the sting and does not wash off. The gel has a particularly good effect if it is applied cool. Storage in the refrigerator is therefore recommended.
In case of allergies
Aloe vera gel can also provide relief from allergic reactions on the skin. skin allergies often manifest themselves in the form of itching, redness, rash and swelling. Aloe vera gel can alleviate these symptoms, relieve itching and inhibit inflammation. If symptoms persist, a doctor should definitely be consulted. Sensitive people should discuss treatment with aloe vera gel with their doctor beforehand.
To support the liver
Aloe vera can also be used internally to detoxify the body. The polysaccharides contained can transport harmful substances out of the body and thus support the function of the liver. In addition, the desert plant contains numerous effective ingredients that can optimally support the body. Aloe Vera is therefore also recommended during a detox.
For premature skin aging
In addition, the effective desert plant is said to rejuvenate the appearance of the skin. The gel cushions the skin due to its strong moisturizing effect and smoothes it. The appearance of wrinkles caused by dryness can be reduced. The gel can also be applied to the sensitive eye area. Care should be taken if the gel contains alcohol or other highly irritating preservatives. In this case, it is better to apply the gel only selectively.
Risks of Aloe Vera
Risks of aloe vera
In addition to many positive effects associated with the use of aloe vera, there are, however, also some risks. Juices and gels from the trade are often highly processed and contain preservatives. In some cases the use of aloe vera can even be harmful to health.
preservation of aloe vera products
Aloe vera plants can be processed in different ways. While the gel consists mainly of the leaf pulp, the juice is often made from the whole leaves. In the case of over-the-counter products, the laxative substances should be filtered out beforehand. However, other valuable active ingredients can also be lost in this way. It is better if the leaf pulp is previously separated from the green peel and treated separately. However, this is very sensitive to oxygen. Must therefore be processed within a very short time.
For this purpose, it is usually slightly heated for several days. Too high temperatures can damage the sensitive ingredients of the gel. Artificially produced preservatives such as benzoic acid and potassium sorbate can also be used. These preservatives can cause allergies in sensitive people.
Aloe vera from monocultures
The popularity of aloe vera also ensures that it is increasingly used in Monocultures is cultivated. Such cultivation can have a negative effect on the quality of the plant. Since the same plant is grown over a large area, nutrients are unilaterally removed from the soil. This means that the plants are less able to protect themselves against diseases and pests. Pesticides and herbicides and fertilizers must be used so that the plants grow healthy. Fertilizer also causes the plants to store more water, which means that the valuable ingredients are less concentrated in the plant.
Caution with anthranoids and aloin
The anthranoids and the substance aloin contained in aloe vera are of particular concern. Since these are suspected Carcinogenic and hereditary to work, laxatives containing these substances are often no longer commercially available. Sensitive people should generally avoid these substances. The use of such preparations should be refrained from if complaints such as abdominal pain, inflammatory bowel disease and intestinal obstruction are present. The preparations can intensify these complaints. Promote cramp-like pain in this area.
Preparations containing anthranoids and aloin should also be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Children under 12 years of age should also avoid the preparations. An application should never last longer than 14 days, otherwise the body can lose too much water and salt. This in turn can promote constipation. The high water loss should be counteracted with a sufficient fluid intake.
In addition, anthranoids can interact with some medications. These include cortisone preparations and cardiac glycosides, which are used for cardiac insufficiency.
Application of aloe vera products
Using aloe vera correctly
Aloe vera has many uses. It is suitable for both internal and external use. Especially externally, the plant is used for numerous complaints. We show you how to use the desert plant.
As care for the skin
Aloe vera is found in many skin care products. Almost every skin type can benefit from the versatility of the plant. It is suitable for both dehydrated and sensitive skin types. Aloe vera gel is also recommended for acne. This is why it is found in cleansing products, creams, serums and essences alike. Pure aloe vera gel is also widely used for skin care.
Pure aloe vera gel
Aloe vera gel is used both in combination with other active ingredients and in pure form. It provides a good base for other active ingredients. Can also be effective in combination with oils. 100 percent pure aloe vera gel is difficult to obtain, because it is preserved by adding other substances.
Natural aloe vera gel is obtained exclusively through the use of fresh leaves. For this purpose, it is advisable to purchase your own plant. When buying aloe vera, make sure that it is the Aloe Vera Barbadensis Miller variety. The gel is obtained by cutting the individual leaves and carefully separating them. The leaves contain the transparent leaf pulp, which can be applied as a gel on the skin. It is best to carefully remove the gel from the leaves with a spoon and store it in the refrigerator. Since the gel is very sensitive, it should be used up as soon as possible.
Aloe Vera Cream
Aloe vera cream is usually a combination of aloe vera gel with other oils and active ingredients. Cream occurrence. Especially in natural cosmetics aloe vera is often used as an ingredient. Valued for its moisturizing effect. Especially in natural cosmetics Aloe Vera is often used as an ingredient. Valued for its moisturizing effect.
You can also easily make your own skin care products with aloe vera. For this you take the fresh gel from the plant. Mix it with other skincare ingredients of your choice. We present a few practical beauty tricks:
Aloe vera pads against dark circles
Many people find unsightly dark circles under the eyes annoying, but they are often unavoidable in everyday life. Those with limited time in the morning can use aloe vera pads to counteract dark circles. Take the pure gel from the plant, dilute it with water and soak some cotton pads in the liquid. It is best to cut the pads in half to better fit the area under the eyes.
Freeze the pads to keep them fresh for longer. This way you will also have cooling and decongestant effect. When you get up, you can now take the pads fresh out of the freezer every morning and put them on your eye rims. Leave them on for about five to ten minutes, for example while you eat breakfast or brush your teeth.
Aloe vera serum
You can easily make your own serum by mixing the fresh aloe vera gel with an oil of your choice. For blemished skin, jojoba oil is recommended as it is non-comedogenic. It means that it does not clog the pores and does not cause impurities. For dry skin, for example, the nourishing almond oil is recommended.
Aloe vera mask
Aloe vera gel is also suitable as a mask. To do this, mix a generous amount of the gel with other ingredients. For an impure skin, ingredients such as honey, chamomile, healing clay and activated charcoal are recommended.
Aloe vera toner
For a moisturizing toner, mix aloe vera gel with water. You can put the toner in a spray bottle. Spray on your face as needed.
As hair care
Aloe vera gel for well-groomed hair
Aloe vera is also ideal for hair care. It makes the hair silky soft and prevents frizzy hair. The gel can be left on for a few hours before washing or diluted with water and applied to the hair after washing.
The moisturizing properties of aloe vera gel are also great for care of the scalp. Especially people with dry scalp and dandruff benefit from the nourishing and soothing effect of the gel. The gel is also effective for inflamed areas. To care for the scalp, the gel should be massaged into the scalp a few hours before shampooing. In addition, aloe vera gel is also suitable for eyelashes. Keeping eyebrows in shape. You'll use a cleaned eyelash brush to do this. Dip it in pure aloe vera gel. The gel nourishes the delicate hair. Keeps them in place throughout the day.
As a dietary supplement
Aloe vera is also available in the form of dietary supplements. For example Capsules, drops and juices from Aloe Vera. Used internally, the plant is said to cleanse the body of harmful substances and strengthen the immune system.
Aloe vera juice
Commercially available aloe vera juice is often mixed with other juices. Thus it belongs to the refreshing drinks. It may contain sweeteners such as honey, thickeners and preservatives. The healthy effects of aloe vera are partially lost in the process.
Aloe vera drink
You can also easily mix an aloe vera drink yourself. Take the fresh aloe vera gel from the plant for this purpose. Mix it with a juice of your choice. It is also excellent in smoothies and freshly squeezed juices. However, you should avoid pureeing the entire aloe vera leaf. How to add harmful anthranoids and aloin to your drink.
Pure aloe vera gel is safe to consume. If you have a plant of the Aloe Vera Barbadensis Miller variety, you can take the gel from the fresh leaf. Be especially careful not to contaminate the gel with the anthranoids from the peel. Although the consumption of aloe vera is associated with some positive effects, many of the vitamins and minerals it contains can also be found in other vegetables and fruits.
Buy aloe vera
Buy aloe vera
Aloe vera products for cosmetic purposes can be found in any drugstore. A wider range is available online. Here you can buy highly concentrated gels containing almost 99 percent pure aloe vera gel, creams, cleansing products and other body care products. Juices and supplements are also available in stores and online. Pharmacies carry skin care products with aloe vera as well as highly concentrated gels. If you want to use aloe vera as a laxative, you should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist. Prices for Aloe Vera products vary considerably depending on the quality of the product.