Aloe – properties, application, contraindications [WE EXPLAIN]

Proven content

Aloe is a plant that can be grown at home. First of all, it is an undemanding ornamental plant, but aloe vera is also known as a remedy for sunburn, allergies, hard-to-heal wounds, and even acne. Aloe vera juice can be drunk as part of a cleansing diet. What else is the juice of this plant beneficial for?

Aloe – what is this plant?

Aloe, to be exact Aloe vera to Aloe barbadensis miller. It belongs to the family Asphodelaceae (Liliaceae) and is a shrub or woody, perennial, xerophytic, succulent, pea-colored plant. It grows mainly in the arid regions of Africa, Asia, Europe and America.

The plant has triangular fleshy leaves with serrated edges, yellow tubular flowers and fruit containing numerous seeds. Each leaf consists of three layers:

1. Internal clear gel containing 99%. water, and the rest consists of glucomannans, amino acids, lipids, sterols and vitamins,
2. The middle layer of latex, which is a bitter yellow juice and contains anthraquinones and glycosides,
3. The outer thick layer of 15-20 cells called the skin, which has a protective function and synthesizes carbohydrates and proteins. Inside the peel are vascular bundles responsible for the transport of substances such as water (xylem) and starch (phloem).

Also read: Healthy plants – which are worth having at home?

Aloe – nutrients

Aloe consists of many valuable ingredients for humans. It contains 75 potentially active ingredients: vitamins, enzymes, minerals, sugars, lignin, saponins, salicylic acids and amino acids.

Vitamins: aloe vera contains vitamins A, C and E, which are antioxidants, vitamin B12, folic acid and choline – antioxidant neutralizes free radicals,

Enzymes: aloe vera contains 8 enzymes: aliase, alkaline phosphatase, amylase, bradykinase, carboxypeptidase, catalase, cellulase, lipase and peroxidase. Bradykinase helps reduce excessive inflammation when it is applied to the skinwhile other enzymes help break down sugars and fats

Minerals: Aloe provides calcium, chromium, copper, selenium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium and zinc. These minerals are necessary for the proper functioning of various enzyme systems in various metabolic pathways,

Sugars: aloe vera provides monosaccharides (glucose and fructose) and polysaccharides: (glucomannans / polymannose). These come from the plant’s mucus layer and are known as, mucopolysaccharides. The best known monosaccharide is mannose-6-phosphate, and the most common polysaccharides are glucomannans [beta- (1,4) -acetylated mannan]. Also found acemannan, a known glucomannan. A glycoprotein with antiallergic properties, called alprogen, and a new anti-inflammatory compound, C-glucosyl chromone, was isolated from the aloe gel.

Antrachinony: Aloe Vera provides 12 anthraquinones, which are phenolic compounds traditionally known as laxatives. Aloin and emodin have an analgesic, antibacterial and antiviral effect,

Plant steroids: Aloe Vera provides 4 plant steroids: cholesterol, campesterol, β-sisosterol and lupeol. They all have anti-inflammatory properties, and lupeol also has antiseptic and analgesic properties,

Hormones: auxins and gibberellins, which help heal wounds and have anti-inflammatory properties,

Other: Aloe Vera provides 20 of the 22 amino acids required by humans and 7 of the 8 amino acids necessary for the proper functioning of the body. It also contains salicylic acid with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Lignin, an inert substance, contained in topical preparations, enhances the penetration of other ingredients into the skin. Saponins, which are soap substances, make up about 3% of the gel and have a cleansing and antiseptic effect.

At Medonet Market you can buy aloe vera liquid soaps:

1. Antibacterial liquid soap with Naturaphy aloe vera extract
2. Antibacterial lemon liquid soap with Naturaphy aloe vera extract
3. Antibacterial lavender liquid soap with Naturaphy aloe vera extract

Aloe is widely used today in:

1. food
2. cosmetics
3. dietary supplements
4. herbal products

Aloe regenerates the skin and supports its hydration, which is why it can be found in cosmetics that eliminate bags under the eyes. At Medonet Market you can buy, for example, eyelid and eye gel with firefly, FLOSLEK aloe and Herbamedicus aloe gel.

Also check: What are the functions of amino acids in the body?

Aloe and Oral Health

Study published in General Dentistry showed that aloe in tooth gels is as effective as toothpaste in fighting caries.

Scientists compared the ability of a gel containing aloe vera to two popular toothpastes. They found the gel was as good as, and in some cases even better than, commercially available toothpastes at combating bacteria that cause oral cavity decay.

The authors explain that aloe latex contains anthraquinones, compounds that actively heal and reduce pain through a natural anti-inflammatory effect.

The researchers warned, however, that not all the gels they analyzed contain the correct form of aloe – to be effective, they must contain a stabilized gel inside the plant.

See: How to properly care for oral hygiene?

Aloe vera for foot ulcers caused by diabetes

A study conducted at Sinhgad College of Pharmacy in India and published in International Wound Journal it concerned the ability of aloe to heal ulcers.

They reported that a gel made of carbopol 974p (1 percent) and aloe promoted significant wound healing and closure in diabetic rats compared to a commercial product and provides a promising product for use in foot ulcers caused by diabetes.

Order today Antibacterial bamboo pressure-free socks with aloe vera, suitable for people with diabetes. We also recommend Antibacterial bamboo terry socks without pressure with aloe, which are pleasant to the touch and can be safely used also in the case of mycosis or a tendency to its formation.

Read: Type 3 diabetes – does it exist?

Aloe as an antioxidant

Researchers from the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in Spain published the study in the journal Molecules.

The team set out to determine whether methanol extract from the peel of aloe vera leaves and flowers could have a beneficial effect on human health. Scientists focused on the possible antioxidant and antifungal effects of the extract.

Mycoplasma is a type of bacteria that lacks a cell wall: it is resistant to many commonly used antibiotics. Antimicoplasmic substances destroy these bacteria.

The authors reported that both aloe vera flower and leaf extracts have antioxidant properties, especially leaf peel extract. Leaf peel extract also showed antifungal properties.

The authors concluded that extracts obtained from the peel of the leaves and flowers of aloe vera can be considered good natural sources of antioxidants.

The valuable properties of aloe have been appreciated by the Embryolisse brand, offering a nourishing and moisturizing cream with aloe extract. The cosmetic deeply cares for the skin and protects it against the harmful effects of free radicals. You can buy Embryolisse cream at a bargain price on Medonet Market. It is also worth trying out the intensely moisturizing SOS Cicalisse balm, as well as the Orientana face wash gel with aloe vera and papaya – it is free of parabens and synthetic substances. Moisturizes, tones, has antibacterial and exfoliating properties. Aloe is also one of the main ingredients of Orientana tonic for dry skin with Japanese rose and pandana fruit. It normalizes the complexion, delays the aging process and brightens the skin. You can also reach for a soothing face tonic with aloe vera and hibiscus Green Lab, which is recommended for sensitive skin.

Aloe Vera and Protection Against Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation

Scientists at Kyung Hee University Global Campus in South Korea wanted to determine if “baby” aloe vera extract and “adult” aloe vera extract: may have a protective effect on UVB-induced photoaging of the skin: in other words, can they protect the skin from aging caused by the sun’s rays.

“Baby” Aloe Vera (BAE) Extract comes from 1-month-old shoots, and “Adult” Aloe Vera (AE) Extract comes from 4-month-old shoots.

In an article published in Phytotherapy Research, the authors summarized: “Our results suggest that BAE has the potential to protect skin from UVB damage more than AE. ”

Try FLOSLEK aloe vera gel for dry skin, which soothes irritations and is available at a promotional price on Medonet Market.

Aloe and protection against skin damage after radiotherapy

A study from the University of Naples in Italy tested five different topical creams to see how effective they could be in protecting the skin of breast cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy. One of these creams contained aloe vera.

The authors of the study divided the 100 patients into five groups of 20, each prescribed a different topical treatment. They applied the creams twice a day, starting 15 days before radiotherapy, and then continued for 1 month. Over a 6-week period, participants underwent weekly skin assessments.

In the magazine Radiation Oncology Researchers reported that the preventative use of topical moisturizers reduced the incidence of skin side effects in women undergoing radiation therapy for breast cancer.

All the moisturizing creams used in this study were equally effective in treating radiation-induced skin damage.

For daily care, you can also use the face cream with aloe. Bioherba’s Orchid soothing charm, which soothes irritations and inflammations, and supports skin detoxification. In turn, for intensive skin nourishment, try the Face Mask with red and pink clay for allergic, sensitive, couperose and discoloration skin.

Aloe – depression, learning and memory

Study published in Nutritional Neuroscience showed that aloe vera reduces depression and improves memory in mice. After conducting experiments on laboratory mice, they concluded that aloe vera improves learning and memory, and also relieves depression in mice. More research is needed to determine if people can also receive the same benefits.

Aloe for burn wounds

A team of plastic surgeons compared aloe gel with 1% silver sulfathiazole for treating wounds after second-degree burns.

The obtained results are presented in Medical Association Journal Pakistan. Noticed, burn wounds heal faster in patients treated with aloe vera compared with patients treated with 1 percent silver sulfadiazine (SSD).

The researchers added that people in the aloe group experienced much greater and earlier pain relief than those in the SSD group.

The authors wrote: “Patients with thermal burns treated with aloe vera gel showed advantages over patients wearing SSDs in terms of early epithelialization of wounds and earlier pain relief”.

To take full advantage of the health benefits of aloe, order Bioherba Aloe Gel available at a promotional price on Medonet Market.

See: Thermal and chemical burns – what exactly are they?

Aloe for acne

Using fresh aloe vera on your face can help clear acne. You can also buy aloe vera products for acne, including cleansers, toners, and creams. They can have the added benefit of containing other effective ingredients as well.

Aloe-based acne products may be less irritating to the skin than traditional acne treatments.

Try the Orientana face mask for combination and oily skin made of natural silk with Filipino algae and aloe.

One 2014 study found that a cream combining conventional acne medications with aloe vera gel was significantly more effective than an acne medication or a placebo at treating mild to moderate acne alone.

In this study, there was an improvement in the lower levels of inflammation and the number of lesions in the group that used the combination cream for eight weeks.

You can buy Aloe extract for beautiful skin today at Medonet Market. Also check out the Aloesove series of body and hair care cosmetics and the BIO Orientana serum for couperose skin, which combines the benefits of aloe with the skin-beneficial effects of vitamin C and mulberry.

Aloe extract is also included in hair care cosmetics, e.g. Vianek strengthening shampoo for dry and damaged hair. We also recommend Bioherba hair shampoo – dry and sensitive scalp, which adds shine to the hair and prevents water loss. After washing your hair, it is worth using Bioherba refreshing and moisturizing hair spray with aloe vera, currently available at a promotional price on Medonet Market.

See the offer of special cosmetics with aloe vera from Peer Pharm:

1. Arganicare Aloe Vera shampoo with aloe vera for dry hair ends and oily scalp,
2. Arganicare Aloe Vera conditioner with aloe vera for dry hair ends and oily scalp,
3. Arganicare Aloe Vera mask with aloe vera for dry and dull hair,
4. Arganicare Aloe Vera serum with aloe vera for dry and dull hair.

Read: Blackhead acne – what exactly is it?

Aloe and anal fissure fractures

If you have cracks around the anus, applying aloe vera cream to the affected area several times during the day may accelerate healing.

Researchers in 2014 found that using a cream containing powdered aloe vera juice was effective in treating chronic anal fissures. Patients used aloe vera cream three times a day for six weeks.

Improvement was evident with regard to pain, post-cavity bleeding and wound healing. These results differed significantly from those of the control group. While this research is promising, more research is needed.

Also read: Anal fissure – everything you need to know

Is Aloe Safe?

Topical application of aloe vera for minor skin care problems is safe for most people. Generally well tolerated, although skin irritations are possible and allergic reactions. Never use aloe vera or any serious cuts or burns.

Notice how your body reacts to aloe vera. If you experience any sensitivities or adverse reactions, do not use aloe vera. Also, avoid taking aloe vera within two weeks of a scheduled surgery.

Follow dosing instructions carefully when taking internally any aloe-derived gel or latex. Limit their use to short periods of time. After a few weeks of use, take a break of at least one week. Always buy aloe from a reputable brand to ensure safety and quality.

The laxative effects of aloe vera can cause diarrhea and abdominal cramps. These effects can inhibit the absorption of oral medications and make them less effective.

Aloe – contraindications

Do not use aloe vera internally if you have experienced the following problems:

1. hemorrhoids,
2. kidney disease
3. impaired kidney function,
4. heart diseases,
5. Crohn’s disease,
6. ulcerative colitis,
7. bowel obstruction,
8. diabetes.

Possible side effects of aloe include:

1. kidney problems
2. blood in urine
3. low potassium,
4. muscle weakness
5. diarrhea,
6. nausea or stomach pain
7. electrolyte imbalance.

Talk to your doctor before using aloe vera if you are also taking the following medications as aloe vera can interact with them:

1. diuretics,
2. herbs and supplements,
3. corticosteroids
4. digoxin,
5. warfarin
6. sevoflurane,
7. stimulant laxatives,
8. diabetes medications,
9. anticoagulants.

How do I collect aloe vera?

Harvesting aloe vera for gel and juice is relatively simple. You will need a mature plant that is at least several years old. This ensures a higher concentration of active ingredients.

You will also need to wait a few weeks before removing leaves from the same plant again. You can have several plants in rotation if you plan on harvesting aloe vera frequently.

To collect aloe vera for gel and juice:

1. remove 3-4 leaves at a time, choosing thick leaves from the outer parts of the plant,
2. make sure the leaves are healthy and free from mold or damage,
3. cut them close to the stem. Most of the beneficial nutrients are found at the base of the leaves,
4. avoid the roots,
5. wash and dry the leaves,
6. trim the prickly edges with a knife,
7. use a knife or fingers to separate the inner gel from the outer side of the leaf. The inner gel is part of the aloe you will use,
8. let the yellow juice drain from the leaf. This is aloe latex. If you plan on using latex, you can catch it in a container. If you are not planning to use latex, you can throw it away
9. cut the aloe vera gel into slices or cubes.

If you want, you can buy ready-made Herbal Monasterium Aloe Juice or Aloe Juice with pulp of the same brand. Both products are available at a promotional price on Medonet Market.

How to use fresh aloe vera gel?

You can apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to your skin or follow a recipe to make a homemade beauty product. It can also be added to food, smoothies and drinks.

To make aloe vera juice, use 1 cup of liquid for every 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel. Add other ingredients such as fruit and use a blender or food processor to mix the drink.

If you plan to consume fresh slices of aloe vera gel, you’ll need to refrigerate it for a few days, but it’s best to use it as soon as possible. The fresher the better. You can always store the aloe vera gel in the freezer if you don’t want to use it for immediate use.

You don’t need to grow aloe vera to benefit from its valuable properties. Try Nature’s Sunshine brand aloe juice, which strengthens immunity, reduces fatigue and supports the functioning of the digestive system.

Aloe – opinions and dosage

When buying a preparation with aloe in the composition, you must follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Most often, for external use, aloe vera gel is applied as needed until symptoms disappear. On the other hand, pure aloe juice for health purposes should be drunk 5 tablespoons 3 times a day between meals.

You can buy 100% Natjun aloe juice at a promotional price on Medonet Market.

Aloe has very different opinions, because it does not work for every person or the effects take a long time. Unfortunately, some people are also allergic to aloe vera juice.