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What is Aloe Vera?


 

Aloe Vera, also known as aloe is from the Lily (Liliaceae) family. There are many different species of Aloe such as Aloe arborescens, Aloe barbadensis, Aloe ferrox, Aloe perryi and Aloe vahombe. They are all botanically similar to Aloe Vera and may possess similar therapeutic properties. The most common of these species is the Aloe barbadensis; this is the one that is mostly used in Aloe Vera products.

The Aloe plant grows mostly in subtropical and tropical climates such as South Africa, The Caribbean and Latin America. It is a tough, perennial plant with fleshy spear-like leaves that can grow up to 1 metre in height. 99% of the aloe plant is water with the inner part of the leaf containing a thick gel like substance.

HISTORY OF ALOE VERA 

For centuries the Aloe Vera plant has been used for many natural healing purposes. Known widely for its medicinal benefits for burns, wounds and skin and intestinal irritation. It was one of the most commonly prescribed plants throughout the 18th and 19th century and today remains one of the world’s most popular and well-liked herbs.

PARTS USED

  • Aloe Vera Gel (a thin, clear, jelly-like material) is derived from the tissue that comprises the inner portion of the leaves. Also known as Aloe Vera Leaf Gel, Aloe Vera Inner Leaf, and Aloe Vera Parenchymous Leaf Gel. It is used both orally and topically
  • Aloe Vera concentrate is Aloe Vera Gel with the water removed. It is often freeze-dried and used orally.
  • Aloe Vera Latex (Aloe Vera Leaf Sap or Aloe Vera juice) is obtained from specialized cells located just beneath the epidermis or rind of the leaf. It is a sticky, bitter, yellow liquid that is the left over residue after the liquid from the cut Aloe Vera leaves have evaporated. The main constituents of Aloe Vera Latex are Anthraquinones. Aloe Vera Latex is used orally as a treatment for Constipation.

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT ALOE VERA

  • In Japan aloe vera is commonly used as an ingredient in commercially available yoghurt.
  • Many Korean beverages contain aloe vera.
  • Aloe Vera has been developed into a gel-based preservative that is colourless, odourless and tasteless. It can prolong the conservation of fresh fruit and vegetables. The gel can be used as a protective coating for the fruit, creating a layer against oxygen and moisture, which inhibits the penetration of antibiotic, antifungal and microorganisms that cause food illnesses.

INTERNAL BENEFITS 

Aloe Vera is filled with powerful enzymes, amino acids, glycoproteins, polysaccharides, vitamins and minerals and is widely used medicinally to enhance the immune system and support the bodies’ natural healing process.

It repairs and regenerates the epithelial tissue (external layer) of the digestive system, leading to better nutrient absorption and more effective absorption. Aloe Vera is soothing and cleansing to the entire digestive system and is helpful in cleaning out and detoxifying the intestines.

Aloe Vera Internally:

  • Aids leaky gut syndrome
  • Detoxifies and cleanses the body
  • Helps combat a bloated stomach
  • Settles and soothes stomach upsets
  • Promotes a healthy digestive process
  • Aids the bodies’ absorption of nutrients
  • Helps maintain friendly intestinal bacteria
  • Soothes the lining of the stomach and intestines
  • Rebuilds and regenerates external and internal tissue
  • Restores the natural balance of acidity levels helping combat Hyperchlorhydria
  • Supports the immune system and combats allergies, fungal, bacterial and viral infections
  • Alleviates inflammation of the colon helping Colitis, Crone’s disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Ulcerative Colitis, Peptic and Duodenal Ulcers, Constipation and Heart burn

EXTERNAL BENEFITS

Aloe Vera is used topically in products such as shampoo, conditioner, face and body moisturizers, antiperspirants, eye gels, balms, sunscreen, toothpaste, shaving lotion and makeup.

Aloe Vera Externally:

  • Cools and moisturizes inflamed skin
  • Helps dry and itchy scalp conditions
  • Stimulates the production of collagen
  • Protects wounds and regenerates the bodies’ natural healing process
  • Alleviates acne by killing the Propionibacterium bacteria that causes acne
  • Accelerates the healing of wounds, chafed and dry skin, cuts, burns, sunburn, Psoriasis, Tinea and eczema.

NUTRITIONAL COMPOUND INGREDIENTS

  • Amino Acids
  • Enzymes
  • Carbohydrate
  • Minerals
  • Organic Acids
  • Lipids
  • Quinones
  • Vitamins
  • Water

CONTRAINDICATIONS

  • Aloe Vera can be used on a short term or long-term basis without any adverse effects on the body.
  • Generally Aloe Vera can be taken with prescription drugs but always ask your health professional first.
  • We do not recommend taking Aloe Vera whilst you are pregnant unless your doctor or midwife has advised you to.
  • Aloe Vera (Latex - Aloe Vera leaf sap or juice) should not be consumed orally during profuse or heavy bleeding during menstruation (due to the ability of Aloe Vera Latex to increase Blood Circulation) to the Uterus.