Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera - A Silent Healer

Introduction:

Aloe Vera, a plant with countless and abundant medicinal benefits is a native plant of Northern Africa. Though originating in the hot, extremely dry, parched regions of Northern Africa it is seen in abundance in the tropical and sub tropical locations of Latin America, South Africa and the Caribbean.

The history of aloe vera dates back to around 5000 years to the early Egyptian period where the plant was illustrated on stone carvings and used by the Egyptian queens to maintain their beauty and charm. This was referred to as the plant of immortality as it was considered as a burial gift to the dead Pharaohs.

Aloe vera, a species of Aloe is a stemless or short stemmed perennial succulent which spreads by offshoots. It is symbolized by thick, fleshy leaves with serrated margin. There are more than 240 species of aloe vera grown mainly in the hot, extremely dry and parched climes of Africa, Asia, Europe and America. Although Aloe vera belongs to the member of the lily family it resembles a cactus plant with fleshy, thorny leaves. This unique plant also belong to a larger plant family called as the Xeroids. Of the 240 plus species only four are identified and recognized to possess nutritional value both to humans and animals. Aloe Barbadensis Miller has been extensively put to use by mankind because of the healing properties and medicinal benefits this magic plant possesses.

Other Names of Aloe Vera:

Over the years aloe has picked up various names. However all the aloe species are not evidenced to possess the medicinal qualities and health benefits as aloe vera. Aloe Africana, Aloe Capensis, Aloe Indica, Aloe ferox, Aloe cactus, Aloe latex, Aloe vulgari, Alovis, Aloe mucilage and Cape aloe. It is also commonly referred to as the Burn plant, True aloe, First-aid-plant, Miracle plant, Bitter aloe, Plant of immortality, Lily of the desert, Elephant’s gall and Aloe coated gloves. They also call it as Aloe perryi, Aloe perfoliata, Aloe saponaria, Aloe spicata, Barbados Aloe and Aloe dhufarensis. The sanskrit name for aloe vera is Kumari Ghritakumari.

Herbal Remedies:

• The aloe gel that is extracted from the leaf is used topically to cure minor burns and cuts effectively. It is believed to contain active compounds that reduces pain and inflammation and stimulates skin growth and repair. It also proves beneficial for sun burns.

• It has proved highly helpful and effective for curing pimples and acne. Hence this gel is implemented in soaps and various creams.It also improves skin tone and clears skin blemishes.Its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties reduces inflammation and kills the bacteria that causes acne.

• It acts as an effective skin moisturizer to revitalize and rejuvenate the skin by relieving minor skin irritations and disorders.

• Aloe latex, a yellowish bitter liquid derived from the fleshy leaves of aloe vera is acclaimed to be a powerful laxative. It is also an effective digestive stimulant. The anti-fungal properties of aloe vera promotes a healthy digetive system.It helps to cure bowel disorders and relieves constipation.

• Aloe vera aids in stimulating and boosting the immune system of the body.

• It is an effective home remedy for curing respiratory disorders and asthma.

• Aloe vera has been touted for various home remedies including treatment for heart burn and skin irritations caused due to insect bites. The perfect way to alleviate symptoms of heart burn is to consume a cup of aloe vera juice.

• Aloe vera juice is a ideal remedy for itchy scalp, excess oil and dandruff. It acts as a good conditioner and protects and nourishes your hair from becoming dry.

• It is an effective remedy for canker sores, herpes simplex viruses, gingivitis and cold sores.

Safety and Side Effects of Aloe Vera:

The US Food and Drug Administration does not guarantee fully for the safety of products that contain Aloe vera gel. It is the users responsibility to read the instructions carefully before using the product. If you have a medical condition it is best to take the advice of a medical practitioner.

Using Aloe vera on wounds have been reported of very slow healing. Moreover the use of aloe vera juice for laxative purpose can even cause cramping and diarrhea. Aloe vera is also believed to cause electrolyte abnormalities in the blood and reduced levels of potasium. Moreover people with thyroid, heart and kidney diseases should use oral aloe only under strict medical supervision.

Conclusion:

Aloe Vera which highly rich and abundant in minerals, vitamins, amino acids and magnesium is regarded as a silent healer. Many people grow aloe vera in their backyard garden as it is noted for its distinctive and unmatched healing qualities.