ALOE VERA:-

BOTANICAL NAME:- Aloe barbadensis

FAMILY:- Liliaceae

COMMON NAME:-

Hindi:- Gwarpatha

English:- Indian aloe

Sanskrit:- Ghritkumari

Parts used- Leaves

Distribution-

• Aloespecies are mostly inhabitants of arid climates, & are widely distributed in Africa, India, and other arid areas. The largest number of Aloe species is approximately 140, and most are found in South Africa
• It has been widely cultivated around the world, and has become naturalized in North Africa, as well as Sudan and neighboring countries, along with the Canary Islands, Cape Verde and Madeira Islands

CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS:-

• Aloe vera contains 75 potentially active constituents such as vitamin A (beta-carotene), C and E, which are antioxidants. It also contains vitamin B12, folic acid, and choline.
• 8 enzymes: alkaline phosphatase, amylase, bradykinase, carboxypeptidase, catalase, cellulase, lipase, and peroxidase
• Minerals-it provides calcium, chromium, copper, selenium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium and zinc.
• Sugars -It provides monosaccharides (glucose and fructose) and polysaccharides (glucomannans/polymannose). These are derived from the mucilage layer of the plant and are known as mucopolysaccharides.
• Lignin, saponins, salicylic acids and amino acids are also present in aloe vera.

 

USES:-

 

Treats constipation:-

The aloe vera plant is very water-dense, so it’s an ideal way to prevent or treat dehydration. Staying hydrated helps the body detox by providing a way to purge and flush out impurities. Aloe vera helps increase the water content in intestines. Research has shown a relationship between increasing the intestinal water content and the stimulation of peristalsis, which helps to pass stool normally.

For clear skin:-

Hydrating aloe vera may help reduce the frequency and appearance of acne. It may also help reduce skin conditions like psoriasis and dermatitis. Aloe vera is a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins that may help protect skin. The important compounds in aloe vera have also been shown to neutralize the effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, repairs skin from existing UV damage, and help prevent fine lines and wrinkles.It helps to increase the production of collagen in the body and skin elasticity.

Aloe Vera when used as a moisturizing gel doesn’t leave a greasy film on the face and the skin. In fact, it unclogs the pores and softens the skin.

Aloe Vera contains powers to boost skin cell reproduction, reduce redness and fight skin inflammation, it is a natural treatment for stretch marks and acne marks.

Benefits of Aloe vera in hair:-

Aloe vera contains proteolytic enzymes which repairs dead skin cells on the scalp. It also acts as a great conditioner and leaves hair all smooth and shiny. It promotes hair growth, prevents itching on the scalp, reduces dandruff and conditions hair. Keratin, the primary protein of hair, consists of amino acids, oxygen, carbon, and small amounts of hydrogen, nitrogen, and sulphur. Aloe vera has a chemical makeup similar to that of keratin and it rejuvenates the hair with its own nutrients, giving it more elasticity and preventing breakage.

Aloe vera contains vitamins A, C, and E. All three of these vitamins contribute to cell turnover, promoting healthy cell growth and shiny hair.

Vitamin B12 and folic acid are also contained in aloe vera gel. Both of these components keeps hair from falling out.

Related Post: Aloe Vera Gel for Skin and hair

 

Aloe vera indigestion:-

One of the most popular health benefits of aloe vera is its ability to aid digestion. Consuming aloe vera improves digestion and relieves hyperacidity, ulcers, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Immunity boosting properties-

Aloe Vera products can be sprayed on animals coat and massaged into the skin, to be used as a natural defense against mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks, and also creates a shiny, revitalized look

Aloe Vera can stimulate immunity and inhibit the growth of viruses. The Acemannan presence in Aloe Vera is a polysaccharide that has been identified as being an immune stimulant which can help with allergies, skin infections, and other diseases that suppress the immune system.

The Aloe extract is potent against various species of bacteria including S. aureus, S. agalctia, E. choli, Streptococcus pyogens, M. bacterium tuberculosis, Pseudomonas aerogenosa, Klebsiella pneumonia, etc. Whole leaf components of A. vera are proposed to have direct antibacterial properties incluing anthraquinones and saponins Rubina.