Whether you are using aloe vera gel topically or taking it internally, this spiky, blue-green succulent is definitely worth the space in your garden or windowsill because of all the health benefits it can bring. There are many reason why this plant has long been prized for its medicinal properties – but some of them might surprise you.
Is Vitamin Rich
Aloe Vera gel is an incredibly rich source of the Vitamin-B complex, as well as folate, Vitamin C and Vitamin A. Vitamin B is essential for healthy energy levels while A and C both boost the immune system.
Provides Minerals
This plant also provides high amounts of minerals such as calcium, zinc, copper, iron, potassium and magnesium. This makes it a great choice for treatment of issues like anemia or osteoporosis.
Supplies Amino Acids
Aloe vera also contains a number of amino acids, including lysine (to support healthy skin), valine (which helps provide energy), methionine (to promote heart and liver health) and leucine (for muscle growth and function).
Aids Digestion
This gel also aids digestion by keeping the lining of your gastrointestinal tract healthy and also by preventing constipation, which if chronic can cause a number of long-term and serious health issues such as colon cancer.
Kills Microbes
Aloe vera’s antimicrobial properties help the body to kill of a variety of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi and other organisms that can call illness or disease; this helps strengthen the immune system and makes it more effective at warding off an attack.
Boosts Immunity
Apart from the antimicrobial properties discussed above, aloe vera also helps strengthen immunity due to the fact that it is a rich source for both Vitamin C (a powerful antioxidant) and polysaccharides, both of which help support immunity.
Contains Fatty Acids
Aloe vera also contains three important fatty acids that are needed for human heath: lupeal (an anti-inflammatory) as well as compesterol and beta-sitoserol, both of which help to lower cholesterol levels and promote cardiac health.
Detoxifies
As it travels through the digestive tract, the presence of aloe vera helps to scour it out and cleanse it, getting rid of unwanted chemicals that have built up in the body and are slowing you down and keeping you tired all the time.
Alkalizes
Acidosis is a potentially serious condition affecting the acid-base balance in your body and can lead to serious health problems if not corrected; aloe vera gel can help to correct this due to the fact that it has a alkalizing effect on the body.
Gives You Healthy Skin and Hair
Aloe vera gel is both a moisturizer and a strong antioxidant and both of these properties can contribute to the health of your hair and skin.
So make room today for the aloe vera plant. Whether you are using it on your skin or as a drink, it can bring you a whole array of healthy benefits such as those mentioned above.
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