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In yoghurt, in shampoos, soaps, we find aloe vera everywhere. And when I say everywhere, it’s everywhere, even in toilet paper! After the media hype around this plant in recent years, we are all more or less convinced that it has beneficial effects.
But do you really know theThe incredible effects of aloe vera ? In this article I will tell you about this plant which has become a super star without us really knowing who it is and what it does.
A plant known since antiquity
Hippocrates, Pliny the Elder, Aristotle… Does that ring a bell? Of course yes, since it is a question of the masters of thought who are at the very origin of current medicine. Already at the time aloe vera was used to treat wounds and help intestinal transit, but also for its cosmetic virtues.
It is not only on the old continent that aloe vera has gained a good reputation. The Amerindians did not hesitate to use the gel of the plant on all kinds of wounds which healed without the need for suturing. Note that no less than 300 species of aloe have been identified. But it is aloe vera that is used the most.
First of all because of its benefits. But we must admit that it is also because it is the variety that grows the most easily. It is also important to know that two substances can be obtained from an aloe vera plant.
First there is the latex. It is a sap that is found in the canals of the bark and it contains 20% to 40% anthranoids which are known for their laxative effects.
It is very important to differentiate latex from gel. Gel is the substance found in the leaves of aloe vera. It is possible to consume the gel as it is or in preparations (for example in juice) and to apply it directly to the skin.
On the other hand, latex can irritate the mucous membranes and the skin and I would not recommend using it by taking it directly from the plant.
The beneficial effects of aloe vera when consumed
For the past fifteen years, studies on the subject of aloe vera have multiplied. Today, we know better than ever how to use this plant for maximum benefit. 
Effects on the digestive system
According to Dr Yves Donadieu “Aloe vera gel would help relieve bloating and facilitate digestion. An English study conducted in 2004 followed 44 patients who had ulcerative colitis.
This showed that aloe vera had a positive effect on their condition, because the plant’s gel performed better than the placebo given to the control group.
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Aloe vera latex is also very famous for its laxative capacities. ESCOP and the World Health Organization agree to recognize the effectiveness of aloe vera latex to treat cases of occasional constipation.
It is to the presence of anthranoids (particularly barbaloin and aloin) that we owe the laxative effects of the plant. In addition, aloe gel contains mucopolysaccharides which help regulate the permeability, structure and viscosity of our intestines.
The role of these unpronounceable things does not end there since they also help the growth of the intestinal flora. You can also rely on aloe gel to strengthen your intestinal barrier.
To read: How to treat a swollen belly
For diabetics
Whether in Mexico, India or the Middle East, the anti-diabetic and hypoglycemic properties of aloe vera have been recognized for centuries.
Out of seven studies conducted on the use of aloe vera to help diabetics, five concluded that the plant’s gel may lower blood sugar levels in people with prediabetes or diabetes.
If the studies concerning the level of cholesterol and blood triglycerides after taking aloe tablets have not been conclusive, those concerning the level of glucose and cholesterol have been more positive.
People with type 2 diabetes have seen a reduction in their glucose and cholesterol levels after taking tablets that contain aloe.
Aloe vera in external care
Against burns
In the year 2007, 4 clinical studies conducted with 371 people proved that aloe can help accelerate healing from 1st and 2nd degree burns. A dry extract of the aloe gel entered into the composition of the cream used.
However, the resulting cream was not as effective as a cream with cortisone in soothing sunburns. But when we know that some people are allergic to cortisone, we understand that doctors look for the solution on the side of aloe vera.
The plant can also cause allergic reactions, but it is rare for a person to develop an allergic reaction to aloe vera and cortisone.
Also read: 15 reasons to use coconut oil for your health
Symptoms of lichen planus
Symptoms of this autoimmune disease include lesions that appear on the mucous membranes and on the skin. 152 patients tested a gel containing aloe and the results showed improvements in the condition of patients who had had the gel instead of the placebo. Likewise, a mouthwash has been tested with the same results. 
Infections, skin inflammation and lesions
Aloe has also been tested in many other clinical cases. Results fluctuate from study to study, but the herb has been shown to have positive effects in the following cases:
- · The gale
- Dehydrated skin
- Inflammation of the scalp
- · Mouth ulcers
- · Healing
To read: The guide to improving your health
Aloe vera in the service of beauty
Some people swear by aloe vera to take care of their beauty. It is true that the plant is granted the ability to facilitate cell regeneration. If you thought you were trying out a new 100% natural way to hydrate your skin, you could give it a go with aloe vera.
In addition to its moisturizing properties, aloe vera is also renowned for its anti-aging benefits. You should know that aloe vera alone contains as many vitamins and minerals as the creams sold on the market. We find in aloe vera gel:
- Vitamins A
- B vitamins
- Vitamins E
- Zinc
- Chlorine
- Calcium
- You go
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
You will therefore not be surprised to know that aloe vera is also used to take care of the hair. Freezing the plant could help:
- repair damaged tips
- facilitate disentangling
- cleanse the roots
- give volume
- soften hair
- give shine
- slow down hair loss
To read: The benefits of ginger
How to make your aloe vera gel at home
This youtuber explains how to extract the juice and the aloe vera gel in case you manage to get a fresh leaf.
Men have enjoyed the benefits of aloe vera for millennia. And if it is only very recently that serious scientific research has been carried out to demonstrate the real effectiveness of this plant, the reputation of aloe vera is well established, whether in the field of health or of the beauty.
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Leave me your questions and comments in the comment section. And if you also know of other incredible effects of aloe vera, do not hesitate to let me know.