Can you tell me if aloe vera is good for autoimmune diseases and if consuming it will improve my skin tone?

Aloe vera is a succulent plant which belongs to the same family as onion and garlic. Historical evidence has pointed to the origin of aloe vera in Africa. It is also called the miracle plant. It contains over 200 active components including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, polysaccharides and fatty acids.

It is very important to note that aloe vera is only one of a few plants which contain vitamin B12. The bulk of the aloe vera stem is filled with a gel-like substance which is about 99 per cent water. This plant has been used therapeutically by many for over 4000 years.

The therapeutic use of aloe vera is still very popular in Jamaica and worldwide. A study was carried out in Jamaica to determine the prevalence of herbs used for medicinal and other properties in randomly selected communities, (Grant and Meeks Gardner, 1999). This study has shown that the use of aloe vera is very prevalent, both in urban and rural communities. Aloe vera was mainly reported to be used to purge (detox) the blood.

Among its many therapeutic properties, several studies have shown that the plant is very helpful in the treatment of autoimmune disorders. Basically, autoimmune disorders cause either low activity or over activity of the immune system. Under these conditions, the body attacks its own tissues. These disorders decrease the body’s ability to fight foreign organisms. This results in the person becoming susceptible to infection.

Examples of autoimmune disorders include rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus, inflammatory bowel disease and type 1 diabetes. Aloe vera contains a very important substance called acemannan which is a polysaccharide. This substance in aloe vera helps to stimulate the white blood cells which fight against foreign microorganisms in the body. In addition, aloe vera is also an immune booster because of the high level of antioxidants which help to eliminate free radicals.

Overall, there are compounds in aloe vera which can act as immune modulators. This means that these compounds have the ability to slow down or speed up the immune system response, thus protecting the body against itself.

Aloe vera is one of the primary compounds used in the cosmetic industry because of its healing properties. Also, the plant is very useful to hydrate, moisturise, soften, smooth and rejuvenate the skin when applied topically because of its high water content. In addition, aloe vera increases the elasticity of the skin, making it more flexible. The plant will also help to improve the blood flow to the skin, which helps to nourish and improve the formation of skin cells.

When aloe vera is taken internally, the gel goes through the intestinal tract, absorbing toxins along the way. These toxins usually become eliminated through the colon. The fact that aloe vera alkalises the body, the proper elimination of waste and toxins will definitely improve skin tone. In addition, aloe vera contains many antioxidants which will help to remove free radicals which can damage the skin. However, it should be noted that aloe vera is a potent medicinal plant and its medicinal uses should be respected and not abused. Therefore, some consideration must be taken, especially with the internal use.

Studies have shown that the long-term use of aloe vera can lead to a loss of electrolytes, especially potassium. Overall, it is generally thought that the use of aloe vera with periodic breaks is relatively safe.

We will answer your weight-related questions.

Are you struggling to lose weight or just need some advice on living a healthier life? Tell us about your health issues and we’ll have nutritionist and wellness coach Donovan Grant answer them for you. Grant has over 12 years’ experience in the fitness industry and is the owner of DG’s Nutrition and Wellness Centre, Suite 16, 39 Lady Musgrave Road, Kingston 5. Send your questions to clarkep@ jamaicaobserver.com.