Aloe Vera: Some benefits You Know, Some That May Surprise You
Aloe Vera is a plant that originated in Africa and now grows in tropical climates around the world. It is known for its skin healing properties, so let’s talk about those first.
There are two main parts of the plant used medicinally, the gel and the latex. The gel contains the skin healing properties. It aids in the healing of burns, wounds, psoriasis and inflammation. It will help cool the skin in the midst of it feeling heated due to irritation. It can be used to keep the skin clear of bumps due to shaving as well. It has also been helpful in the treatment of diabetic wounds.
This healing of wounds does not just apply to external wounds, but to internal ones as well. The same is true for internal inflammation. Aloe Vera gel is very beneficial in helping heal irritation or ulceration to the gastrointestinal tract. Example of conditions with this are gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, acid reflux, and inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis.
The latex part of the aloe plant has laxative properties and can be used, in small doses, to address atonic constipation. Combining with other herbs known to relax intestinal muscles and sphincters, such as chamomile, can help to decrease cramping when stimulating the bowels. The latex is contraindicated in inflammatory bowel diseases and inflamed hemorrhoids. It has typically been removed in store-bought Aloe Vera gel.
Aloe Vera also helps to improve the immune system and increase absorption of nutrients. This makes sense because it is helpful for healing the digestive tract. Our digestive system houses about 70-80% of our immune system, and is the place for absorption of nutrients from our food. Aloe Vera alone also provides several naturally-occurring vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Consider buying an Aloe Vera plant so you can have a lifetime supply of its wonderful healing benefits!
Devin Miles, ND
Naturopathic doctor
Bio:
Dr. Devin Miles is the owner of It’s Time Natural Health, in which she uses a wide variety of natural therapies to help prevent and heal the body of illness. She focuses on total preventive wellness and kidney health. Dr. Miles offers consultations in which she uses an in-depth customized approach for every individual to achieve optimal health and facilitate the body’s inherent ability to heal itself.
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