August 8, 2017
The Super Hero of All Plants
Aloe Vera is known as the healer plant, it has everything from Vitamins, Minerals, Amino Acids, Enzymes and Anthraquinones just to name a few! An anti-biotic, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory, it’s the first thing we all think about after too much time in the sun. That soothing gel doesn’t just feel cooling and relieving, it actually helps repair the skin. Aloe has a significant amount of vitamins A, C and E which are all fantastic for the skin and helps with reducing wrinkles, fading brown spots, smoothing and firming, neutralizing free radicals and keeps the skin moisturized.
Aloe Vera contains Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Manganese and Chromium, just some of the minerals it has which are vital for health. Calcium helps with the formation of teeth and bones while Magnesium strengthens them and maintains muscles and the nervous system. Manganese is also crucial for bone formation and along with Magnesium it activates enzymes essential for breaking down fats and proteins for digestion. Zinc is another mineral that aids in bone, teeth and skin health. It also speeds up healing and keeps the immune system in tip top shape.
It’s also packed with amino acids and includes all 8 of the essential ones (the ones our bodies cannot make on their own). Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and are imperative for cell, muscle and tissue formation. They also play a big part in transporting and storing nutrients we get from our diet and needed for healing wounds and repairing tissue.
Probably the most common way to use Aloe Vera is directly from the plant itself. Break a stalk off and slit it down the middle (it has a nice organic “green” smell), scoop out the goopy gel and slather it on!
Some topical uses for Aloe Vera
- Treats minor burns for sun, grease splatters, steam, etc
- Helps with scarring and stretch marks
- Can take the sting out of bug bites
- Moisturizes and hydrates the skin
- Great as a shaving lotion or after shave lotion
You can also consume Aloe Vera by drinking “Aloe” juice which has exploded in popularity in recent years. Please be wary of the ingredients when buying these juices and always opt for organic varieties.
Some benefits from drinking Aloe
- Keeps you hydrated
- Good for the bowels (thanks to all the anthraquinones in it)
- It’s alkalizing in the body
- Aids in digestion and naturally detoxifies
- Great way to get important nutrients
As with anything we take, there may be risks involved if you drink too much. Be smart about it, you don’t need a gallon of Aloe juice to reap the rewards. Too much of this gooey nectar can cause abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, electrolyte imbalance and possible skin reaction if used topically. Stick to one 2-4 oz glass a day and your body will be happy, balanced and thank you for it.
