Powerfoods: Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera: The Miracle Plant

This is one of the most impressive herbs (Garlic would be another) that has been used since ancient times for medicinal purposes. Sumerian tablet dating back to 2100 B.C. has even recorded its healing ability. In the Atharva Veda in the Hindu culture, the Aloe Vera plant is named “the silent healer”. The Egyptians was the first to recognise its array of amazing healing benefits with Cleopatra and Nefertiti among the Egyptian queens to use Aloe Vera as a skincare and beauty product. Even Alexander the Great was documented in history of having used Aloe Vera to treat his wounded soldiers. There are almost 400 species of Aloe plants around.

• It stimulates the production of collagen and elastin; necessary to prevent ageing of the skin. It also hydrates the skin, and accelerates skin repair
• Studies show that it can be used as a laxative and to destroy certain bacteria or parasites in the intestines. It heals the intestines, lubricates the digestive tract and can even halt colon cancer. It is said to cure ulcers, IBS, Crohn’s disease and other digestive disorders
• It helps to alleviate muscle pain and pain in the joints due to arthritis
• It helps stabilise blood sugar and reduce triglycerides in diabetics
• It functions as nature’s own “sports drink” for electrolyte balance
• The juice is loaded with vitamins including: Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C and E, Folic Acid and Niacin
• It can accelerate healing from physical burns and radiation burns
• Aloe can reduce inflammation and discomfort caused by fungi and bacteria for denture patients
• It alkalises the body, helping to balance overly acidic dietary habits
• Its gel has beneficial effect in the decrease of total cholesterol, triglycerides and blood fat lipid levels
• The plant has almost 20 amino acids, and vital minerals like calcium, magnesium and sodium in sufficient quantities, enzymes, vitamins, polysaccharides, and nitrogen
• Minerals like calcium, sodium, iron, potassium, chromium, magnesium, manganese, copper, and zinc are found in aloe vera
• It contains magnesium lactate, a mineral that inhibits itch, to bring relief to insect bites, acne, sunburns, rashes, and other topical conditions