Aloe Vera is well known for its ability to soothe sunburn, but its benefits extend beyond the skin. The gel-like tissue beneath the plant’s thick, prickly outer coat is filled with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids, delivering a tremendous health impact. This nutrient-rich goo can be found in moisturizers, shower gels, shave creams, and sunscreens, but it’s the transparent, cold-pressed inner flesh provides the most benefits.
So today, we have compiled the list for the 13 AMAZING Health Benefits of Aloe Vera.
Number 1. Fights Acne.
A study published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment discovered that combining topical retinoids with aloe vera gel to treat breakouts has “better efficacy” to either treatment taken alone. Salicylic acid, found in aloe vera, has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to eliminate acne-causing bacteria while also relaxing stressed-out skin to minimize redness and inflammation.
Number 2. Reduces Dental Plaque.
Tooth decay and gum disease are relatively common health issues. One of the most effective strategies to prevent these problems is to minimize plaque, or bacterial biofilms, on the teeth. Researchers from India discovered that swishing aloe vera mouthwash decreases plaque as effectively as chlorhexidine, a prescription mouthwash for gum disease. Alternatively, you might use an aloe vera gel-based toothpaste.
When the Academy of General Dentistry compared the germ-fighting capabilities of tooth gel to that of two commercial toothpastes, the former proved just as effective at reducing cavity-causing organisms. Over a 15- to 30-day timeframe, another study discovered similar effects of aloe vera mouth rinse. Aloe vera kills the plaque-producing bacterium Streptococcus mutans as well as the yeast Candida albicans in the mouth.
Number 3. Improve Skin and Prevent Wrinkles.
There is some preliminary evidence that topical aloe vera gel helps reduce skin ageing. In a 2009 research of 30 females over the age of 45, ingesting oral aloe vera gel for 90 days boosted collagen formation and enhanced skin suppleness. According to reviews, aloe vera may assist the skin retain moisture and promote skin integrity, which may benefit dry skin issues.
Number 4. Aids Digestion.
A teaspoon of aloe vera juice on an empty stomach is supposed to help with digestion and bowel movement. Most nutritionists now recommend drinking aloe vera juice because it aids in weight loss. Aloe vera’s polysaccharide ingredient can treat a variety of digestive ailments as well as ulcers. It is also a common result of digestive disorders.
Number 5. Deep Cleans Oily Hair.
Aloe vera effectively cleanses the hair shaft, removing excess sebum (oil) and residue from other hair products. However, aloe vera does not harm your hair strands while cleaning. Aloe vera, unlike other chemicals in hair products, is mild and helps to maintain the integrity of your hair. Using aloe vera is indeed an excellent technique to achieve healthier, shinier, and softer hair.
Number 6. Strengthens and Repairs Hair Strands.
Vitamins A, C, and E are all found in aloe vera. All three of these vitamins help with cell turnover, which promotes healthy cell growth and lustrous hair. Aloe vera gel also contains vitamin B12 and folic acid. Both of these elements can help to maintain your hair from falling out. However, there have been no clear studies that show aloe vera has any advantage in preventing hair loss. Aloe vera’s vitamin content suggests that it may also help to restore sun damage to your hair.
Number 7. Accelerates Wound Healing.
Aloe vera is most commonly used as a topical medicine, rubbing it onto the skin rather than ingesting it. In reality, it has a long history of usage in the treatment of wounds and burns, including sunburn. As early as 1810–1820, the United States Pharmacopeia describes aloe vera formulations as a skin protectant.
It appears to be an effective topical treatment for first and second degree burns, according to research. A study of experimental research, for example, discovered that aloe vera could reduce the healing duration of burns by roughly 9 days when compared to conventional medicine. It also aided in the prevention of redness, irritation, and infections. Although the evidence regarding aloe vera’s ability to treat various types of wounds is uncertain, the research is promising.
Number 8. It’s Hydrating.
Not only is water present in approximately 95% of the plant, but aloe vera also contains electrolytes such as magnesium and potassium, “which contribute to hydration, especially after exercise,” according to registered dietitian Clarissa Lenherr. “However, because many of the advantages of aloe vera are contained in the pulp, the amounts found in the juice are rather low.” Stick to skincare for the best results — smooth the gel over your skin after a shower to seal in moisture.
Number 9. It’s Moisturizing.
Add aloe vera into your everyday skincare routine for a brighter complexion. According to the Indian Journal of Dermatology, the nutrient-rich gel adheres epidermal cells together, softening skin. “The amino acids also soften tough skin cells, and zinc acts as an astringent to tighten pores,” the researchers stated. It will also improve the performance of your more expensive skincare products because aloe vera contains lignin, which helps your skin absorb other substances.
Number 10. Soothes Razor Burn.
Aloe vera is well-known for soothing and treating burns, including razor burn. It occurs when the blade destroys your skin and hair follicles, causing them to become irritated. It is a nearly unavoidable side effect of de-fluffing your face. Apply a small layer of the gel post-shave to eliminate the rash and restore skin balance – it will minimize redness, relieve pain, and aid in the healing of razor bumps.
Number 11. Lowers Blood Sugar.
Two tablespoons of aloe vera juice has been demonstrated to lower blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetics. Compounds in the plant boost insulin sensitivity, allowing the body’s cells to utilize blood sugar more efficiently. What’s the final outcome? Fewer cravings, less hunger, and less difficulty losing weight. In an eight-week study conducted by Seoul National University Hospital, pre-diabetic patients shed nearly a kilo of fat and gained half a kilo of lean body mass after taking an aloe vera gel supplement.
Number 12. Treats Mouth Sores and Canker Sores.
Many people suffer from mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, at some point in their lives. These typically appear behind the lip, inside the mouth, and stay around a week. Aloe vera treatment has been found in studies to speed up the healing of mouth ulcers.
For example, in a 7-day study of 180 persons with recurring mouth ulcers applying an aloe vera patch to the area reduced the size of the ulcers. It did not, however, outperform the standard ulcer treatment, corticosteroids. In another trial, aloe vera gel not only hastened the healing of mouth ulcers, but it also reduced their pain.
Number 13. May Boost Your Metabolism.
Animal studies have indicated that aloe vera activates an enzyme called AMP-activated muscle protein kinase (AMPK), which regulates your metabolism. In one study, porky rats fed dried aloe vera gel lost weight because the supplement boosted the quantity of calories they burnt. Is it possible for humans to gain the same benefits? More investigation is required.