Aloe vera

by | Jan 2, 2024 | Ingredient Library

The History of Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a succulent plant that has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. This plant is believed to have originated in the Arabian Peninsula and was first mentioned in ancient Egyptian texts as early as 1550 BC. It was highly regarded by many civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Chinese, for its healing properties.

Mechanism of Action

The gel inside the aloe vera plant contains various bioactive components such as vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and amino acids. These compounds work together to provide numerous health benefits. The most notable component is acemannan, a polysaccharide that has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Aloe vera also contains antioxidants, which help protect the body from harmful free radicals.

Health Benefits

Aloe vera, a versatile plant with a rich history of medicinal use, has been employed for centuries to address a diverse array of health conditions. Renowned for its soothing properties, it has found applications in treating various skin irritations, burns, and digestive ailments. Moreover, aloe vera is believed to possess potent anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral characteristics that facilitate wound healing and fortify the immune system. In addition to these benefits, scientific studies have indicated that regular consumption of aloe vera may contribute to improved blood sugar control and reduced cholesterol levels, making it an intriguing natural supplement for overall wellbeing.

Nutritional Information

Aloe vera is not only beneficial for its medicinal properties but also as a source of nutrients. The gel contains essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, E, B1, B2, B3, B6, and folic acid. It is also rich in calcium, magnesium, zinc, and potassium. Aloe vera is low in calories and sugar, making it a great addition to a healthy diet.

Health Conditions

Aloe vera has been traditionally used to treat various health conditions such as constipation, skin irritations, and infections. It has also gained popularity for its potential benefits in managing diabetes, reducing inflammation, and promoting wound healing. However, more research is needed to confirm these claims.

Usage

Aloe vera can be used in various forms, including gels, juices, supplements, and topical creams. The most common way of using aloe vera is by applying the gel directly onto the skin or consuming it as a juice or supplement. Topical creams containing aloe vera are also available for skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.

Side Effects

While aloe vera is generally safe for most people, it can cause some side effects in certain individuals. These may include allergic reactions, stomach discomfort, and diarrhea. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming or using any form of aloe vera.

Interactions

Aloe vera can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and diuretics. It is important to speak with a healthcare professional before incorporating aloe vera into your routine if you are taking any medications.

Dosing

The recommended dosage of aloe vera varies depending on the form used and the health condition being treated. It is always best to follow the instructions on the product label or seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

Eastern and Western Applications

Aloe vera has been used in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, and Native American healing practices for centuries. In these systems, it is believed to have cooling and moisturizing properties, making it useful for treating conditions such as burns, inflammation, and digestive issues. In Western medicine, aloe vera is primarily used for its topical benefits, such as treating sunburns and minor skin irritations.

Associated Meridians

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), aloe vera is associated with the meridians of the liver, stomach, and large intestine. These meridians are believed to be responsible for regulating various bodily functions and treating specific health conditions. For example, the liver meridian is believed to be responsible for detoxification and promoting blood circulation, while the stomach meridian is associated with digestion and nutrient absorption.

References

  1. Langmead L, Feakins RM, Goldthorpe S, et al. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of oral aloe vera gel for active ulcerative colitis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2004;19(7):739-747.
  2. Surjushe A, Vasani R, Saple DG. Aloe vera: a short review. Indian J Dermatol. 2008;53(4):163-166.
  3. Guo X, Mei N. Aloe vera: a review of toxicity and adverse clinical effects. J Environ Sci Health C Environ Carcinog Ecotoxicol Rev. 2016;34(2):77-96.
  4. Yagi A, Egusa T, Arase M, Tanabe M, Tsuji H. Antioxidant activity of aloe vera extract in vitro and its protection against UV-induced erythema in vivo. Food Chem Toxicol. 2002;40(7):1009-1014.
  5. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Aloe Vera. Updated March 2020. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/aloe-vera
  6. Gage AA, Freeman RG. Aloe vera and the inflamed synovial pouch model [abstract]. Agents Actions. 1979;9(3):269-275.
  7. National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. Vitamin C: Fact Sheet for Consumers. Updated June 2021. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-Consumer/
  8. Medical Reference: Aloe Vera. University of Maryland Medical Center Web site. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/aloe-vera-000221.htm.
  9. Rasheed Z, Anbazhagan AN, Akhtar N, Ramamurthy S, Shukla M. Aloe vera enhances the innate immune response of Channa striatus against Aeromonas hydrophila infection by altering nuclear factor-kappaB signaling pathway. Fish Shellfish Immunol. 2012;32(6):1059-1068.
  10. Basli A, Soulet S, Chaher N, et al. The effects of aloe vera on wound healing in cell proliferation, migration, and viability. Wound Repair Regen. 2014;22(5):712-726.