6 Health Benefits of Aloe Vera

Most people just associate Aloe Vera with being an effective natural remedy for treating sunburn, and it is true, Aloe Vera does contain many properties that can help soothe damaged skin. However, it has many more health benefits than being used as an after-sun treatment.

Aloe Vera may be beneficial for arthritis, gout, and fibromyalgia, and may help with digestion and dental health.

Aloe Vera Uses and Benefits

The leaves of the Aloe Vera plant contain a gel-like substance that can be applied directly to the skin. However, you can also get the health benefits of it by taking supplements or drinking 100% Aloe Vera juice. As with any new health regimen, be sure to talk to your doctor before starting it to make sure it is right for you.

How can you use Aloe Vera to help improve your overall health?

#1) Aloe Vera for Joint and Muscle Health

Aloe Vera is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, which might make it beneficial for arthritis sufferers. Aloe Vera contains plant sterols, which have been shown to help with inflammation.

Studies looking into Aloe Vera have found that Aloe Vera can help reduce inflammation, and thus help with the pain that accompanies inflammation. One such study showed that extracts of Aloe Vera have the same effect on the body as COX-2 drugs.[2]

Aloe Vera also contains many vitamins and minerals that are essential in helping to repair damaged cells and tissue.

For joints and muscles, you can apply Aloe Vera topically to the affected area or take an oral supplement.

#2) Aloe Vera for Burns

One of the most common ways of using Aloe Vera is to help soothe sun-damaged skin. There is no doubt that when Aloe Vera is applied to burned skin, the relief is immediate. However, Aloe Vera doesn't just soothe the skin, it actually speeds up the healing process. The International Society for Burn Injuries reported that in clinical trials, there is enough evidence to support the fact that Aloe Vera can help treat first to second-degree burns.[4]

#3) Aloe Vera for Healthy Skin

Aloe Vera can also help to keep skin looking healthy and young. One study showed that over a 90 day period, Aloe Vera helped to visibly reduce the appearance of wrinkles and caused the skin to be more elastic.[5] It shows benefits in this way because Aloe Vera helps to stimulate the production of collagen.

#4) Aloe Vera for Dental Health

If you are looking for an effective natural mouthwash, then Aloe Vera can help fight plaque and improve overall dental health. In a large study of 300 people, it was found that Aloe Vera juice was as effective as chlorhexidine, which is a common mouthwash ingredient.[6]

#5) Aloe Vera for Blood Sugar Levels

Aloe Vera can may also help reduce glucose levels in the blood, which means that it can be effective for people with type-2 diabetes. One study published by Planta Medica showed that 300mg of Aloe Vera extract helped to reduce blood sugar levels and bad cholesterol (LDL).

#6) Aloe Vera for Digestive Health

Aloe Vera may also help the body's digestive system to function properly, as well as help to detoxify the body. It is also a natural laxative so if you take it regularly be aware of this effect on the bowels.

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References:

1. Antibacterial activities and antioxidant capacity of Aloe Vera. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3729540/]
2. Anti-inflammatory activity of Aloe Vera gel extracts. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9121170]
3. Extract of Aloe Vera helps reduce sciatic nerve pain. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4293747/]
4. The efficacy of Aloe Vera for burn wound healing. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17499928]
5. Dietary Aloe Vera improves facial wrinkles and elasticity. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2883372/]
6. The efficacy of Aloe Vera mouthwash. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4006208/]
7. Aloe Vera in dentistry. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4253296/]
8. Effects of Aloe Vera gel in type 2 diabetic patients. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22198821]