Aloe Vera the plant of immortality

It is also known as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent and promotes increased blood _ ow to wounded areas.

When applied topically, aloe vera aids with healing injured tissue and provides mild relief from the discomfort caused by the injured tissue.

For this reason, aloe is excellent when applied anywhere on the body. It can be used to treat sunburn, eczema, bruises and insect stings. It is effective at treating both inflamed acne and acne scars. Fresh aloe vera pulp can be easily incorporated into any beauty regimen without much effort.

1. Add aloe to your mud mask. The aloe reduces acne redness, swelling and discomfort while fading dark spots on the face. Many acne treatments do this while drying out the skin, but aloe treats acne while moisturising the skin.

2. Add aloe to your deep conditioning treatment. Whether oil or cream based, adding aloe pulp to your conditioner benefits both the hair and scalp. Aloe increases the elasticity of the hair, reducing breakage and resulting in more length retention. Aloe also balances the pH of the scalp so the itching and flakes associated with conditions like dandruff are relieved.

3. Fresh aloe pulp can be used as a toner.

Apply a thin layer to the face, neck and d?colletage and leave on overnight. Vitamins C and E helps to maintain skins firmness and boost elasticity, both essential in maintaining your skins’ youthful appearance.

The benefits of aloe are not limited to external use. Aloe contains digestive enzymes that support the health of your gut by assisting with more effective digestion and elimination. Since aloe vera is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, it enhances immunity and helps to fight free radicals in the body.

Other claims about the power of the aloe plant includes its ability to: • stabilise blood sugar and reduce triglycerides in diabetics • ease inflammation and reduce arthritic pain • alkalise the body and help to balance overly acidic dietary habits.

Aloe vera should only be taken in small doses when eating or drinking, since it produces a laxative effect if too much is ingested. For this reason, pregnant women and young children should be very cautious when consuming aloe.

The aloe vera plant can be put to use in a variety of ways and should be considered more than just an ornamental plant. So the next time you pass by your aloe plant, pick a leaf and reap some of the bene_ ts of the gem that’s been hiding in plain sight all your life.