Aloe Vera

Everyone knows Aloe Vera as the squishy, prickly plant that grows in abundance in tropical climates. If you’re anything like me, the first few days of a beach holiday usually results in a sunburn that requires the help of aloe vera to recover from.

Due to its cooling and soothing effect, Aloe has been used for centuries to treat burns and skin wounds. In fact, many studies have shown that it increases healing time by up to 9 days. So, go ahead, grab that Aloe and take advantage of these natural properties as often as you can.

But what else can it be use for? Lots!

Aloe vera juice

But what about that Aloe Vera juice sat on the shelves of Whole Foods? Is all the hype about it’s health related properties true or just another ploy to put a price tag on one of nature’s natural supplements?

Aloe Vera juice is commonly made by crushing or grinding the entire leaf of the aloe vera plant, followed by various steps to purify and filter the liquid. This juice is known to produce many health benefits, including:

1.Hydration - The water dense leaf is an ideal way to stay hydrated, which helps your body detox by flushing out impurities. Aloe vera juice also contains a number of nutrients that help promote the efficiency of your body’s organs, helping your kidneys and liver detoxify your blood and produce urine.

2. Constipation - The hydrating effects of aloe vera can help relieve constipation. The juice has laxative properties that can aid in digestion and encourage gut bacteria that regulates bowel movements.

3. Hair and Skin vitalization - Natural vitamins and enzymes found in aloe vera can directly promote healthy hair. The important compounds in aloe vera have been shown to neutralize the effects of ultraviolet radiation, repair your skin from existing UV damage, and help prevent fine lines and wrinkles.

4. Immune System boost - Aloe Vera juice has been shown to work great for your immunity. A body with an acidic pH can attract disease and the alkaline aloe juice balances your body’s pH - levels helping to ward off disease.

5. Weight Loss - The anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera juice help combat inflammation within the body which is linked to weight gain.

6. Beauty hacks - Aloe vera juice can also be used to remove make up, moisturize, and sooth and relieve irritated skin.

7. Nutrition Boost - Aloe vera is packed with Vitamins A, C, E, B and folic acid. It’s also rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, selenium and potassium and it’s also one of the only plant sources of B-12.

8. Detoxifying the body - Aloe Vera is one of nature’s most effective cleansers. It’s crammed full of amino acids, vitamins and minerals which can help strengthen digestion and help flush the toxins out of the body. Anyone who suffers with digestion problems like IBS should give aloe vera a try. It’s healing and soothing properties can help with painful symptoms.

9. Treating Heartburn - Studies have shown that aloe vera juice can be a natural, more effective medication for treating heartburn or acid reflux.

This might have you thinking that aloe vera is a miracle drug and should be consumed on a regular basis, but don’t go drinking gallons. Experts agree that eight ounces a day (please read the labels), along with a healthy diet seems to produce the health benefits we are all looking for.

What are the negative effects of aloe vera?
Decolorised (purified, low anthraquinone) whole leaf aloe vera is considered safe but please always speak to a doctor if you have any concerns. The side effects of nondecolorised, unpurified aloe vera can range from diarrhea to reaction to prescription drugs or allergies.

Aloe vera juice can be purchased online or in most health food stores. When shopping, look for the following statements on the label: