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Aloe Vera: Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Introduction:

The botanical name of aloe vera is Aloe barbadensis miller, and it belongs to the family Liliaceae. The term aloe vera is derived from the Arabic word ‘alloeh’, which means ‘shining bitter substance’, and vera (Latin) means ‘true’. For centuries, aloe vera has been used for its medicinal, health, beauty, and skincare effects. It has been used for several reasons in dermatology. It mainly grows in the dry regions of Asia, America, Africa, and Europe.

In India, it is found in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh.1 Aloe vera is also called wand of heaven, potted physician, wonder plant, plant of life, and heaven’s blessing.2 The other famous names of aloe vera are Indian Alces, Aloe, Ghirita, Kumari, Gawarpaltra, Lu hui, Curacao aloe, and Barbados aloe.3

Nutritional Value of Aloe Vera:

Aloe vera contains vitamins A, B12, C and E, choline, folic acid, minerals (sodium, calcium, manganese, magnesium, copper, zinc, potassium, chromium, and iron), sugars, amino acids, and sterols.2

Properties of Aloe Vera:

Aloe vera has several properties, such as

Also Read: Castor Oil – Uses, Benefits, Precautions & More!

Potential Uses of Aloe Vera:

Potential Uses of Aloe Vera:

Because of various properties, aloe vera has shown potential uses against several health conditions. Some potential uses of aloe vera are given below.

Potential uses of aloe vera for skin:

Aloe vera is known for its healing and soothing effects on burns and other wounds. Aloe vera may increase the wound closure rate and tensile strength when applied to a wound.4 However, if you have any wounds, seek medical help and get the wound treated.

Aloe vera’s components may reverse degenerative skin changes. This may help reverse the ageing effects of the skin.3 Aloe vera may be used as a moisturiser and give moisture to the skin. It might help make the skin more elastic and less wrinkled. It may also soften the skin and tighten the pores. More research is needed to support the use of aloe vera in skin ageing. Talk to your skin doctor or dermatologist if you have any skin-related concerns.

Read More: 8 Best Anti-Aging Foods to Look Younger

Aloe vera may protect the skin from dust and other natural elements that can cause harm to the skin.4

PharmEasy Recommends: EverHerb Aloe Vera Juice

Potential uses of aloe vera for diabetes:

Aloe vera is used in many parts of the world as a traditional remedy for diabetes mellitus. Studies in animals and humans have suggested that aloe vera may improve chronic hyperglycaemia (an excess of glucose in the blood) and disturbed lipid profile, which are the features of diabetes mellitus and are major risk factors for heart-related diseases. It was also found to reduce the blood sugar levels in diabetes patients during a clinical study. It might help prevent gestational diabetes (a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy in women).4 However, diabetes is a severe health condition that requires you to strictly adhere to the doctor’s advice and treatment. Avoid using any herbal remedies without consulting your doctor first.

Potential uses of aloe vera for antimicrobial activity:

The aloe vera extract was found to be effective against pathogenic bacteria such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus faecalis, and Streptococcus pyogenes during a lab trial. It was found to be effective in killing viruses.

Aloe vera gel fractions reduced the proliferation of cells of cytomegalovirus. It may also be effective against herpes simplex virus, pseudorabies virus, and influenza virus.

It could reduce the growth of fungi Malassezia furfur and Candida albicans in a lab trial. It could also reduce the growth of some microbes that cause foodborne diseases in humans or animals, as per several studies.4 More research is required to support the use of aloe vera against microbial infections. Until then, you must talk to your healthcare provider if you encounter any infection or disease.

Potential uses of aloe vera for ulcers:

Aloe vera juice may be valuable for managing ulcers, heartburn, and other digestion-related diseases. The extract of aloe vera could help reduce acid secretion. Some studies have identified that aloe vera may also be used for children.4 However, do not use aloe vera as an alternative to modern medical treatment. Using herbal remedies to combat ulcers may worsen the situation.

Potential uses of aloe vera for inflammation:

Some of the features of inflammation include pain, swelling, redness, and heat, which delay the healing process. The aloe vera gel may help relieve discomfort and pain and speed up the healing process. It might help reduce inflammation pain and act as a natural pain killer.4 However, if the inflammation does not improve, seek medical advice.

Potential uses of aloe vera for tumours:

Aloe vera gel may show anti-tumour and anti-ulcer properties and increase the multiplying of normal human dermal (skin) cells. The aloe vera extract was evaluated for cancer prevention activity in an animal model. It could prevent the tumour-promoting effects of Phorbol myristic acetate, suggesting that aloe gel might be beneficial in preventing cancer.4 With human trials, we may be able to support the use of ale vera in cancer. Until then, you must consult your healthcare provider before using any herbal remedies for health benefits.

Potential uses of aloe vera for detox:

The juice of aloe vera may be an excellent natural aid for detox. Due to our unhealthy food intake, pollution, and stressful lives, our body systems require regular cleansing. Aloe vera juice may provide minerals, vitamins, and trace elements to help and support our body in dealing with our daily stresses.4 However, you need to talk to your healthcare provider before using herbal remedies for health benefits.

Though there are studies showing the benefits of aloe vera in various conditions, these are insufficient and there is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of aloe vera on human health. 

An important thing to keep in mind is that when you use aloe vera for your wounds, burns or cuts, do not cover it with a bandage. Aloe vera works as a wound healer best in the open air, therefore, covering the site would delay the healing process.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

Read More: How to Detox Your Body?

How to Use Aloe Vera?

Aloe vera can be used in the following ways:

Your Ayurvedic physician will prescribe you the form as per your requirement.

You must consult a qualified doctor before taking aloe vera or herbal supplements. Do not discontinue or replace an ongoing treatment of modern medicine with an ayurvedic/herbal preparation without consulting a qualified doctor.  

Did you know you can develop an intolerance to aloe vera juice? So, avoid taking aloe vera in your food and drinks too often and talk to your doctor for the best outcomes.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

Side Effects of Aloe Vera:

Side effects associated with aloe vera use are as follow.

Before using aloe vera or other herbal remedies, you need to talk to your healthcare provider about its possible side effects and limitations. It will help you avoid unwanted side effects.

Also Read: 8 Best Home Remedies For Immediate Relief From Constipation

Precautions to Take With Aloe Vera:

Do not consume aloe vera if you have heart diseases, diabetes, kidney problems, are nursing, are pregnant, or are allergic to garlic, onions, or tulips.3

Also, if you are suffering from any disease condition, pregnant or breastfeeding then you must consult your doctor before using aloe vera for its benefits and precautions. Do not use herbal remedies for disease conditions without a doctor’s consultation. 

Interactions of Aloe Vera With Other Drugs:

Because of the various effects of aloe vera on health, it may interact with certain medicines.

If you are receiving treatment for any disease condition, talk to your healthcare provider about the possible interactions of the medicine with other drugs and herbs. It will help you make well-informed choices and avoid unwanted herb-drug interactions.

Also Read: Sesame Seeds: Uses Benefits, Side Effects and More!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is aloe vera edible?

Yes, aloe vera is edible and may be consumed as juice.4 However, you must consult your doctor before consuming aloe vera. There are some conditions in which you cannot consume aloe vera. Do not take/consume aloe vera if you have heart diseases, diabetes, kidney problems, are nursing, pregnant, or allergic to garlic, onion, or tulips.3

Does aloe vera help in wound healing?

Yes, aloe vera may help in healing wounds.4 However, do not use aloe vera or other herbal remedies for wounds without consulting your healthcare provider first.

How to use aloe vera?

Aloe vera can be used as gel, cream, ointment, or juice.4 However, you must consult your doctor before consuming aloe vera.

Can aloe vera be used on skin?

Yes, aloe vera may be used on the skin. It may act as an excellent natural moisturiser for the skin.4 However, if you notice any allergic reactions, immediately contact your healthcare provider.

Is aloe vera good for hair?

Yes, aloe vera may be good for the hair and scalp.3

Can aloe vera be used for dandruff?

Yes, aloe vera might be effective in reducing dandruff.3 However, you must consult your doctor before consuming aloe vera.

Can aloe vera be used for managing hair loss?

Yes, aloe vera can be used for managing hair loss. The enzymes in aloe vera help in avoiding hair loss as they protect the scalp against any diseases.3

What is the precaution to be taken with aloe vera?

Do not take/consume aloe vera if you have heart diseases, diabetes, or kidney problems. Also, if you are nursing, pregnant, or allergic to garlic, onion, or tulips, you should not consume aloe vera.3 Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider before using aloe vera for its benefits.

Are there any side effects of aloe vera?

A few side effects of aloe vera have been observed. The side effects of oral use include diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, hepatitis, red urine, irregular heartbeat, and worsening constipation. Its laxative effects may cause electrolyte imbalances. It has been reported that prolonged use of aloe vera may increase the risk of colorectal cancer.1,3 The side effects of topical use include burning, redness, stinging sensation, and rarely generalised dermatitis in sensitive people. It is advised to apply aloe vera in a small area first to test for any possible allergic reaction.1 Also, talk to your healthcare provider before using aloe vera against any disease condition.

Also Read: Gokshura: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, Precautions & More!

References:

1. Surjushe A, Vasani R, Saple D. Aloe vera: A short review. Indian J Dermatol. 2008;53(4):163–6. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2763764/

2. Zadeh JB, Kor NM. Component and Application Aloe Vera Plant in medicine. Int J Adv Biol Biomed Res [Internet]. 2014;2(5):1876–82. Available from: http://www.ijabbr.com

3. Kumar KPS, Bhowmik D, Chiranjib, Biswajit. Aloe vera: a potential herb and its medicinal importance. Jounal Chem Pharm Res [Internet]. 2010;2(1):21–9. Available from: http://scholar.google.com/scholar?hl=en&btnG=Search&q=intitle:Aloe+vera:+A+Potential+Herb+and+its+Medicinal+Importance#1

4. Tsegaye M, Sewalem M, Gashe M. Review on Therapeutic Uses of Aloe Vera. Glob J Pharmacol. 2017;11(2):14–20. Available at: https://www.spafactorythailand.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Review-on-Therapeutic-Uses-of-Aloe-Vera.pdf

Also Read: Amaltas – Uses, Benefits, Side Effects & More!

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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9 Aloe Vera Benefits for Face and Skin!

Aloe Vera, the modest houseplant is a ‘miracle,’ wonder plant, often hiding in plain sight. Having been around and used as a medicinal herb, it nourishes the body from the inside – it is rich in nutrients, aids in improving digestion and even boost immunity. Aloe Vera can be used topically too, i.e., its gel can be used to enhance one’s skin, especially the face and the hair.

However, before we get into the essential reasons and health benefits of Aloe Vera, let us first learn how to extract Aloe Vera gel directly from the plant. If you have an Aloe Vera plant at home, select its fatter leaves or stems and cut it from the base. Or you may pull the leaves from their bottom.  Be careful as the plant has thorns.

Next, use a sharp knife to slice the thorns from the edge of each leaf. Then slice the stalk in half and keep the gel side up. You may slice open leaf as well. Use a spoon to scrape the gel out into a container. When all the gel is extracted, refrigerate the gel. If this process seems too tedious for you, you can buy Aloe Vera gel from the market as well.

Here are six reasons to apply Aloe Vera gel on your face, skin, and hair –

Aloe vera contains the enzyme bradykinase, which is the active ingredient to suppress signs of inflammation, namely redness, swelling, pain, and heat when the gel is applied on the skin.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD

1 Helps soothe sunburn

Aloe Vera gel has cooling properties and is anti-inflammatory. Hence, it is one of the most natural remedies for sunburn or burnt skin. Applying this gel helps with a protective layer for the skin, and it also helps to retain moisture. It is rich in antioxidants and minerals that boost the healing process. So now you can maintain your summer skin health using aloe vera.

2 Helps to moisturize the skin

Unlike regular, market-bought moisturizers, Aloe Vera gel when used as a moisturizing gel doesn’t leave a greasy film on the face and the skin. In fact, it does just the opposite – it unclogs the pores and softens the skin.

It can be used as an aftershave treatment. This is because the Aloe Vera gel helps to keep the skin hydrated and heals burns by razors and smaller nicks & cuts. It also helps treat dry skin.

There has been a recent advancement regarding the composition of aloe vera. Researchers have isolated a compound, alprogen from aloe vera which is found to be effective against skin allergy.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

Also Read: Jojoba Oil for Skin: Understanding Its Science-Backed Benefits

3 Boosts healing of wounds

It is now a known fact that Aloe Vera is highly beneficial for burns, cuts, and other injuries. This is because Aloe Vera boosts the healing of wounds, i.e., reduces the time of healing. This is true especially in the case of 1st degree and 2nd-degree burns. It’s a great skin burn treatment. It also helps to speed up skin cell reproduction as much as eight times. Aloe Vera is also known to penetrate the epidermis, i.e., the outer layer of the skin faster than water.

4 Fights skin-ageing

Aloe vera gel is considered a great cleanser for the skin due to its antiseptic action. It is comprised of soap-like substances, saponins, which are effective antiseptic agents.

Dr. Smita barode, BAMS

Aloe Vera gel has vitamin C and E, beta-carotene in abundance. Therefore, it has anti-ageing properties. It also contains antimicrobial properties and is anti-inflammatory. It also helps to eradicate skin blemishes and diminish age lines. Additionally, it helps to increase the production of collagen in the body and skin elasticity.

aloe vera for skin

5 Reduces infection and acne

Those who suffer from acne will find respite in Aloe Vera. It helps in gentle cleansing, and its antimicrobial properties treat pimples without causing any damages to the skin. It is an antiseptic that allows protection against bacteria. Aloe Vera contains polysaccharides and gibberellins. These help in the growth of new cells and at the same time, reduce inflammation and redness. It also works as an astringent that reduces the size of pores, flushing out the excess sebum, microbes, and dirt.

6 Lightens blemishes on the face

As we already know, Aloe Vera contains powers to boost skin cell reproduction, reduce redness, and fight skin inflammation, it is a natural treatment for stretch marks and acne marks. To treat freckles and lighten age spots, add some lemon juice to the gel mixture. It is one of the perfect home remedies for glowing skin.

Also Read: Nodular Acne: Research-backed Solutions for Managing Stubborn Breakouts

Aloe Vera for hair and scalp

Did you know that there are almost 250 different aloe vera varieties, out of which only 4 are capable of beneficial effects on health? Also, aloe vera is 96% water. The health benefits are due to the constituents which constitute about 4 % of the composition of aloe vera.

Dr. Anuja Bodhare, MD

1 Helps in hair growth

Like skin reproduction, Aloe Vera gel helps in activating new hair growth as it increases blood circulation to the scalp. It also provides essential minerals and vitamins. Aloe Vera contains proteolytic enzymes that help repair dead skin on the scalp. So aloe vera works as a great remedy for scalp problems in women and men.

PharmEasy Recommends: Everherb (By Pharmeasy) Aloe Vera Juice With Pulp 

2 Keeps dandruff at bay

Aloe Vera helps in healing dry skin, fungal infections and excessively oily skin. All these are significant causes of dandruff. It is one of the natural ways to get rid of dandruff.

3 Acts as a conditioner to the hair and scalp

Just as how it moisturizes the skin, Aloe Vera helps to condition the hair and soften it. Regularly applying Aloe gel to the hair and scalp helps to maintain the vitality of the hair and its shine.

Also Read: Red Spots on Skin: Causes, Symptoms, and Research-Based Treatment Strategies

Ways to Use Aloe Vera For Skin

A Highly effective and prominent compound which works against inflammation of the skin has been recently extracted from aloe vera gel. This compound is known as C-glucosyl Chromone.

Dr. Ashok Pal, BAMS

Here are a few simple and easy Aloe vera DIY recipes for using it on your skin:

IngredientsMethod
Aloe Vera gel– Take 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel or fresh aloe vera pulp- Apply directly to the face and neck
Aloe vera gel, Vitamin E– Break the Vitamin E capsule and pour out the content into 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel- Mix it thoroughly then apply to the areas around your eye- Leave it in overnight
Aloe vera, raw honey, sea salt– Mix 2 tablespoons of aloe vera with a little sea salt well- Add in a tablespoon of honey, combine it well- Use as a gentle scrub for mild exfoliation on the body and face- Rinse with warm water
Aloe vera, honey and rosewater– Combine1 tablespoon of aloe vera,1 tablespoon of raw honey and 2 tablespoons of rosewater- Mix into a smooth paste and apply as a mask- Leave it on your face for 10-20 minutes- Wash with warm water- Can be used several times a week for those with acne issues

Must Read: 7 Powerful Home Remedies For Acne

FAQs

1. What are some of the side effects of Aloe Vera?

There are a few side effects of aloe vera. If you take aloe vera orally, it might cause cramping and diarrhoea as it has a laxative effect. It can also be bad for the colon. High doses of oral aloe are dangerous and you can also have intestinal problems, heart disease, hemorrhoids, kidney problems, diabetes or electrolyte imbalances.

2. How much aloe vera is safe to use?

Aloe vera used in creams and gels vary in dosage. While some may have just 0.5% aloe vera, others may contain as much as 70% aloe vera, used as a treatment for psoriasis. Aloe as an oral supplement must be consumed in moderation and it is best to consult a doctor. 

3. Is aloe vera good for dark circles?

Aloe vera is often used as a natural remedy for dark circles. It may improve skin moisture, support mature skin and reduce inflammation and is recommended to use under the eye but not too close to the edge of your eyelid.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for  educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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