The properties of aloe have been appreciated for thousands of years. It is valued for its beneficial effect on the skin, helps in the fight against burns, and accelerates the regeneration of injured areas. Currently, it is not only an ingredient in cosmetic products, but also in medicinal products. What is worth knowing about it?

Aloe(Aloe barbadensis miller) known as Aloe vera belongs to the succulent family. The two most popular species of aloe - woody or ordinary - can be found in pots on the windowsills of many houses. Although it can grow up to several meters, in home cultivation it most often reaches 50-60 cm.

Under natural conditions, there are over 300 species of aloe, which grows mainly in the arid regions of Africa, the Arabian Peninsula and America. It occurs mostly in semi-arid and desert areas, where access to water is limited. To survive, it is equipped with water tissue that stores moisture.

Characteristics of aloe leaves

A characteristic feature of the succulent are triangular, thick and fleshy leaves ending with small spines, often called cloves. Each succulent leaf consists of three layers.

The outermost waxy layer protects the leaves from water loss through evaporation. It synthesizes proteins and carbohydrates.

The middle layer, i.e. bitter juice, contains glycosides and anthraquinones. The inner layer hides a gel-like flesh, consisting of 99%. out of water.

Nutrients in aloe vera

Aloe contains many valuable ingredients - it has as many as 75 potentially active substances.

  • Vitamins - Aloe contains Vitamins A, C and E which are antioxidants. It is a source of vitamin B12, folic acid, i.e. vitamin B9, and choline - vitamin B4.
  • Enzymes - contains eight enzymes, ie aliase, alkaline phosphatase, amylase, bradykinase, carboxypeptidase, catalase, cellulase, lipase and peroxidase. Bradykinase soothes inflammation of the skin, and the remaining enzymes help to break down sugars and fats.
  • Sugars - monosaccharides (glucose and fructose) and polysaccharides.
  • Minerals - Aloe is a source of calcium, chromium, copper, magnesium, selenium, manganese, potassium, sodium and zinc. These minerals are essential for the proper functioning of enzyme systems in various metabolic pathways.
  • Anthraquinions - aloeprovides anthraquinones, which are phenolic compounds with laxative properties. Additionally, aloin and emodin have analgesic, antibacterial and antiviral properties.
  • Plant steroids - cholesterol, campesterol, β-sisosterol and lupeol. All of them have anti-inflammatory properties, and lupeol additionally has antiseptic and analgesic properties.
  • Hormones - auxins and gibberellins support wound healing and have anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Other - in the composition of aloe we find as much as 20 out of 22 amino acids important for humans, as well as 7 out of 8 amino acids necessary for the proper functioning of the body. In addition, aloe vera contains salicylic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It is a source of lingin - an inert substance that is a component of topical preparations, which enhances the penetration of other ingredients into the skin. In turn, saponins constituting 3 percent. gels are soapy substances with cleansing and antiseptic properties.

Check out how to use aloe vera!

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Healing properties of aloe

Aloe has a number of beneficial properties that have a positive effect on our body. It has been used in the treatment of various ailments for hundreds of years. Although it is known mainly for its laxative properties, of course it doesn't stop there.

Increases the production of bile, and thus is used as an adjunct in liver disorders. Aloe increases the production of gastric juice, which is why it is considered an effective means of stimulating the appetite. It affects the intestinal peristalsis, helps in the fight against constipation and restores the acid-base balance in the body.

In addition, the high content of polysaccharides makes it aiding in the treatment of digestive system diseases, such as inflammation and stomach ulcers. It is used to treat ulcerative colon.

Supports carbohydrate and fat metabolism. It helps to maintain the correct level of glucose and cholesterol in the blood. Aloe has anti-inflammatory, fungicidal and bactericidal properties, which makes it perfect for infections, skin damage, scratches, abrasions and burns.

Helps to rebuild damaged tissues. Aloe soothes the symptoms of skin diseases, for example :

  • allergy,
  • eczema,
  • psoriasis
  • and acne lesions.

In turn, the water extract of tree aloe leaves is used in the treatment of recurrent infections of the upper respiratory tract caused by bacteria or viruses. The use of aloe vera is recommended in the statesreduced immunity - the ingredients contained in it support the protection of the body.

Use of aloe in cosmetics

Due to its protective, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, aloe has been widely used in cosmetology and dermatology. The polysaccharides contained in it stimulate the production of collagen fibers, and thus accelerate wound healing and regeneration of damaged skin. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it is used in the production of cosmetics for acne-prone skin.

We can find it in products intended for people struggling with atopic dermatitis (AD). It soothes irritations and relieves itchy skin.

Salicylic acid relieves pain and reduces inflammation. It is an ingredient of creams, lipsticks and hair growth preparations. Aloe moisturizes and firms the skin. In addition, its antiviral properties are used in the fight against cold sores.

What products is aloe vera found in?

Aloe is commonly used in cosmetic products. We can find it in creams, lotions to moisturize the skin, face masks, hair shampoos.

It is a component of cleansing gels, toothpastes and cosmetics intended for the care of the skin of the eyelids and eyes. It can also be found in burn gels. It is found in some dietary supplements and herbal products.

Where to buy aloe vera juice?

Aloe juice can be found in pharmacies or he alth food stores. However, before buying, it is worth getting acquainted with the manufacturer's recommendations for its use. Aloe vera juice can be used externally or internally.

The best choice are BIO certified products with 100% juice with pulp . People who want to drink aloe vera juice should choose the one for internal use.

How to get the pulp from aloe vera?

If we have a plant that is a few years old, which is a valuable source of high concentration of active ingredients, we can obtain aloe vera gel and juice ourselves. It is enough to remove a few thick leaves from the outer part of the succulent at one time - but no more than four.

The leaves should be cut close to the stem, but be careful not to damage the roots. Wash the leaves thoroughly and trim the small spines.

We separate the inner gel from the outer part of the leaf. We can cut it into small cubes or grate it on a coarse-mesh grater.

If we eat fresh slices of obtained aloe vera gel, we should store it in the refrigerator - but not longer than a few days. The fresher the aloe is, the better.

Homemade aloe vera cosmetics

Aloe in a pot withoutwe can use no worries to prepare home cosmetics and care products. The obtained flesh is perfect for the care of the skin, even the sensitive one. You can use it on its own or add it to your face cream or body lotion.

Cosmetics enriched with aloe can be used by pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Perfect for the care of the scalp and hair. It is a natural conditioner that will make your hair shiny, smooth and nourished.

Aloe can also be used as an eyebrow or nail conditioner.

After diluting the flesh, we will get a make-up remover for the face and eyes. Aloe vera gel can also be added to cocktails, drinks or food.

Aloe dosage

When choosing a product with aloe, always follow the manufacturer's instructions on the packaging. We use it externally until the symptoms subside.

For he alth purposes, it is recommended to drink five tablespoons of pure aloe juice three times a day before meals. The juice can also be diluted with water.

Is the use of aloe safe?

While it is safe to use topical aloe vera in most cases, there may be times when you may experience an allergic reaction and skin irritation. Before using aloe, it is worth checking how our body reacts to it.

If you experience an adverse reaction from using aloe vera, you should stop.

We do not use aloe on deep, bleeding wounds and fresh burns . Remember that it has a laxative effect that can cause diarrhea and abdominal cramps.

Aloe - contraindications

Who Shouldn't Use Aloe Vera? Although aloe has a beneficial effect on our body and has a number of valuable properties, there are some contraindications to its use. People who are constantly taking medications should consult a doctor before using it.

Aloe may have an adverse reaction with:

  • herbs and dietary supplements,
  • antidiabetic drugs,
  • diuretics,
  • corticosteroids,
  • warfyną,
  • digoxin,
  • with sevoflurane,
  • laxatives
  • and many other medications.

The internal, or oral intake of aloe vera juice, is not recommended:

  • pregnant women,
  • breastfeeding
  • for children under the age of 12.

In addition, it may have an adverse effect on people struggling with:

  • heart disease,
  • diabetic,
  • with intestinal insufficiency,
  • impaired kidney function.

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