In our previous articles, we've mentioned the benefits of numerous plants and spices that people have been using since ancient times. But we haven't written much about one of the most beneficial natural remedy, Aloe Vera. Since it has so many helpful characteristics, it was even known by the name „plant of immortality“ among ancient Egyptians. Given all the mentioned, it definitely deserves our attention, so we bring you the top properties of Aloe Vera, as for the health, so for the beauty.
Aloe vera, a cactus plant belonging to Liliaceae family, can be found in dry climates of Africa and India, where the population has been familiar with its benefits for centuries now. Home-grown aloe vera can be simply harvested by gripping the fat leaves from around the base and pulling firmly while being cautious not to cut your fingers. The plant will release the gel, which should be stored in the refrigerator. The harvested gel can be used for treating sunburns, all kinds of skin wounds and infections, improving digestion and immune system, etc.
Skin
Aloe Vera has great cooling properties, as well as anti-inflammatory, which aids sunburnt skin perfectly. Some researches have shown that treating burnt skin with aloe vera leads to great results – healing time of first and second-degree burns is reduced by nine days. Aloe is such a good remedy for burns due to the fact that it penetrates the epidermis a lot faster than water (up to 4 times) and accelerates the skin cell reproduction by 8 times. Furthermore, its richness in antioxidants and minerals boost the healing time.
This plant also works like a charm when it comes to home-made face masks. It has amazing moisturizing properties that will soften your skin, without clogging the pores or leaving a greasy feeling on your face. Another positive trait of cleansing with Aloe Vera gel is that its antimicrobial, antibacterial and antiseptic properties will help you get rid of pimples and skin redness. Since it's replete in vitamin C and E, it also provides the skin with some anti-aging properties.
Hair
Since it boosts blood circulation to the scalp, and it is filled with beneficial minerals and vitamins, aloe vera increases hair growth. Diane Gage, author of Aloe Vera: Nature’s Soothing Healer, states that keratin, which is the main protein in hair, has similar ingredients like Aloe Vera, resulting in more rejuvenated hair with more elasticity. Aloe Vera is a good solution for dry, irritated or oily skin, which all are potential causes of dandruff. These characteristics make it a great remedy for dandruff. Using Aloe Vera gel on a regular basis will provide you with soft, silky and shiny hair.
Aloe Vera gel can be used as the main ingredient in many beauty recipes, such as face masks, eyebrow gel, shaving gel, make-up remover, body wash, after-sun spray, foot scrub, conditioner, hair gel, shampoo… We recommend growing and harvesting your own Aloe Vera plant, as this is the best way to collect all the beneficial properties.
Nessie L.B.