Aloe vera: Soothe your skin among other things

By Karen Appold

Aloe vera is known for its healing and rejuvenating properties. Comprised of about 99 percent water, this age old, succulent plant is nutrient rich and contains multiple organic compounds, metabolic catalysts, proteins, and vitamins. Extracts are commonly used in the cosmetic and alternative medicine industries.

Good for your skin

A popular home remedy for healthy skin, aloe vera is also an ingredient found in skin lotions and different types of sunblock. It is also used to treat eczema and various wounds and burns. According to researchers, it may even hydrate three epidermal layers of the skin with high polysaccaride as an important component of absorption.The skin’s basal layer contains important keratinocytes or “basal cells,” which work to fight sun damage and help the body remain hydrated.

Good eatin’?

Enzymes in your body help you digest food properly.They help your digestive system break down macromolecules such as carbohydrates and proteins. Aloe vera juice or its extracts, taken moderately, may promote digestive health and even reduce painful irritation associated with digestive ailments such as irritable bowel syndrome, constipation and possibly even gastritis. Reports also indicate aloe vera may boost the metabolism and strengthen the immune system. Studies are underway to explore aloe vera’s potential in fighting the HIV virus as well as certain types of cancer.

Aloe vera and anemia

You need oxygen in your blood to be healthy. Hemoglobin helps make this happen. It brings oxygen, via your blood flow, to your tissue and organs, and helps dispel unwanted carbon dioxide. Aloe vera has been reported to aid patients in this respect by boosting bone marrow production. Your bone marrow helps you make red blood cells, which, in turn, facilitates the circulatory system. A good working circulatory system promotes healthier respiratory system. In this, aloe vera may reduce fatigue and may stave off some ill effects of anemia such as severe dizziness and even migraines. Some research also suggests aloe vera juice may boost white cell production helping patients defend against viruses and infectious disease.