Aloe Vera: 10 Incredible Health Benefits

Aloe Vera is truly a miracle ingredient, with experts saying that the plant could contain up to 400 active ingredients, (according to Aloe Medical Group).

The plant contains vitamins A, C, E and B12 alongside antioxidants, calcium, zinc and hundreds more beneficial minerals, enzymes and other properties that can help your body both inside and out.

Aloe Vera can be used either externally as a gel (either fresh from the plant or store-bought), or can be drunk as a liquid or taken as a supplement for internal benefits.

Here are just 10 of Aloe Vera’s many incredible uses:

  1. Acne Treatment:

The anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of Aloe Vera gel can do wonders for skin affected by acne, pimples, redness and inflammation. It is especially soothing for sensitive skin.

  1. Boosts the Immune System:

Aloe Vera has been found to stimulate a part of the immune system called macrophages, which are cells involved in the detection and destruction of bacteria and infection. Drinking Aloe juice or taking supplements helps to kick these cells into action and help fight off the nasties.

  1. Dry Skin Treatment:

Studies have shown that using Aloe Vera gel on the skin can dramatically reduce dryness in as little as four days.  (do I need to include a reference to the study here?) So no need to stress if winter has left your skin worse-for wear, Aloe Vera can have you back up and running in no time.

  1. Promotes Hair Growth:

Aloe Vera contains a property called proteolytic enzymes, which are effective in accelerating the growth of new cells and tissue. Add some Aloe Vera into your shampoo and conditioner or make a hair mask

  1. Anti-Cancer:

The same proteolytic enzymes that help accelerate hair growth may also be effective in fighting cancer cells when Aloe Vera juice is drunk on a regular basis.

  1. Heals Wounds:

From burns and rashes, to cold sores and cuts, Aloe Vera’s antibacterial properties are great at reducing redness, fighting off bacteria and speeding up the healing process.

  1. Dry Hair/Scalp Treatment:

Using 1-2 tablespoons of Aloe Vera gel as part of your hair routine can show amazing results. Either use it as a conditioner replacement in between regular washes, use as a mask by massaging into wet hair, or mix some in with your shampoo and conditioner for added hydration.

  1. Aids Digestion:

Aloe Vera has ingredients that work as natural laxatives, alongside its detoxifying and anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking Aloe Juice (especially before eating) can help in the digestion of your food, and could also help aid weight loss by improving digestive function.

  1. Anti-Ageing:

Aloe Vera contains Vitamins A, C and E, all of which have been proven for their anti-ageing qualities, so using the gel on the skin not only helps with inflammation and dryness, but also fights off fine lines and wrinkles.

  1. Aloe Vera for Teeth:

Some studies have shown Aloe Vera to be effective in improving dental health, and as it doesn’t contain the abrasive, soap-based ingredient used in most toothpastes it can be an attractive alternative for people with sensitive teeth and gums.

However, not all store-bought Aloe Vera products are genuine, with many using fake colorants, deceptive marketing or using majority water instead of pure Aloe. Click here for some tips on how to make sure the Aloe Vera you’re purchasing is genuine.

Sarah Carroll

Sarah navigates health and fitness alongside a sinful sweet tooth and an unfortunate tendency to splash her savings online shopping, eating out or buying $10 cocktails at happy hour. With a love for yoga, animals and musical theatre, Sarah is rarely found without a peppermint-green tea in hand, tearing up over animal videos on Instagram.

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