Aloe vera benefits

Dear Donovan,

I have always heard that aloe is good for purging the blood and improving skin tone. I want to include aloe juice in my diet but I’m uncertain about its nutritional benefits. Is it a good cleanser?

— Natalie

Good day Natalie,

Despite the bitterness, the aloe vera or miracle plant is full of nutritional and other benefits. This plant is succulent and belongs to the lily family. This family also includes onion and garlic.

The aloe plant has both external and internal applications. This plant contains over 200 active components including minerals, enzymes, amino acids, polysaccharides and fatty acids. These substances allow the plant to be used for a wide range of remedies. It is believed that humans have used the aloe vera therapeutically for over 500 years.

Indeed, aloe is the miracle plant.

1. It is high in vitamins and minerals and is         

    only one of a few plants with vitamin B12

2. Aloe is high in amino acids and fatty acids

3. Aloe is an immune booster

4. Aloe helps with digestion

5. Aloe helps in detoxing the body

6. Aloe also makes the body alkaline

7. Aloe helps with cardiovascular health

8. Aloe is great for the skin

9. Aloe also has antiviral, antibacterial and germicidal properties

10. Aloe helps in reducing inflammation.

Aloe vera is very good for the skin. Its benefits on the skin are well known. Aloe vera is also one of the major compounds used in the cosmetic industry.

In addition, aloe vera is a known vulnerary, meaning it helps to heal wounds. It is also great to apply topically to burns, abrasions, and psoriasis, and even bug bites.

The aloe plant also relieves pain from wounds. The plant is also believed to have a substance which prevents itching. In addition, due to the high water content of the aloe vera — over 99 per cent — it is a great way to hydrate, moisturise and rejuvenate the skin.

The aloe vera also increases the elasticity of the skin, making it more flexible through collagen and elastic repair. Aloe also helps to soften and smooth the skin. In a nutshell, the aloe vera plant is very good for the skin and has been touted as a good detoxing agent.

The aloe is an example of a gelatinous plant and when consumed the gel moves along the intestinal tract absorbing toxins along the way. These toxins become eliminated through the colon. By aiding this process the aloe will help in the proper elimination of water from the body and help in the detoxification of the body.

A simple way to prepare the aloe vera for this use is to cut it up and soak a mature leaf of aloe vera in half gallon of water. This should be placed in an open container on the top shelf of the fridge. Allow to soak for 12 hours and then drink for four to six or seven to nine nights. It is normally suggested that after this period a break from the aloe should be taken.

Good luck!

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