Aloe vera is a very famous medicinal plant that has been used for thousands of years. It’s a short-stemmed, thick plant that contains water in its leaves and is best known for curing sunburns and other skin issues.
However, apart from that, aloe vera also has several other uses that could be beneficial for health and beauty. In this article, we will explain some of the amazing benefits of aloe vera, along with the potential risks associated with it.
Benefits of aloe vera
Here’s a list of some incredible benefits this medicinal plant offers:
1) Soothes sunburn
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and cooling properties that are the most natural remedies for burnt skin and sunburns. Applying it regularly not only soothes burns and enhances the healing process but also helps the skin retain its moisture and get hydrated.
2) Prevents skin-ageing
Aloe is rich in vitamin E, vitamin C, and beta-carotene – all good sources of anti-ageing properties. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it an amazing ingredient to get rid of blemishes, wrinkles, and fine lines.
It helps improve skin elasticity and promotes the production of collagen in the body too.
3) Prevents acne
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, aloe gel can be very effective in treating inflammatory acne, such as nodules and pustules. It gently cleanses and cures acne without causing any further damage to the skin.
It protects the skin against bacteria and also reduces post-acne redness and inflammation. Plus, it reduces the size of pores and eliminates excess sebum from the skin.
Also read: What Are the Common Types of Acne, and How To Get Rid of Them
4) Prevents dental plaque
Tooth disease and decay are some of the most common gum problems faced by people of every age. Studies have shown that aloe is quite effective in eradicating plaque-building bacteria in the mouth.
5) Reduces constipation
Aloe vera may also help cure gut problems, including constipation. The latex in the plant, which is a sticky yellow color residue under the skin of the aloe leaf, is quite beneficial when it comes to preventing constipation.
An important point to note here is that aloe does not provide any relief against other gut issues, such as inflammatory bowel syndrome.
6) Works wonders on dandruff
Aloe is a great ingredient when it comes to keeping dandruff and oily scalps at bay. Regular use of aloe gel on the scalp not only reduces dandruff and fungal infection but also prevents them from coming back. It’s one of the most natural and the most effective ways to get rid of dandruff.
7) Promotes hair growth
Applying aloe gel to the hair helps promote hair growth by increasing blood circulation to the scalp. It has proteolytic enzymes that help restore dead skin on the scalp and work as a great hair growth treatment.
Also read: How to Stimulate Hair Growth Naturally?
Potential risks
Although aloe is safe for the skin, hair, and health when applied externally, oral use may cause stomach issues for some people. Due to its laxative components, it might lead to diarrhea and stomach pain when taken orally.
While aloe vera has a range of natural and therapeutic properties, it’s best to consult a doctor before using it to treat the condition.
