Aloe vera is a natural remedy with a long history of use for many different ailments. It has been used to treat skin conditions, digestive issues, and even as a natural laxative. Today, it is widely available in many forms, including juices, gels, and creams. In this post, we’ll explore the many benefits, how to use it, and some of the potential risks associated with it. We’ll also discuss why it is such a popular natural remedy and how it can be incorporated into your daily routine. Finally, we’ll provide some tips on how to find the highest quality aloe vera products.
Nutrition Facts and Calories Chart
Aloe Vera is a nutrient-rich plant that is high in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. It is a good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, folic acid, and choline. It also contains many minerals, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, and iron. Additionally, it contains polysaccharides, which are compounds known to have antioxidant properties. It also contains enzymes that help break down sugars and fats. The plant is also a source of essential fatty acids, which are important for healthy skin and hair. Nutritional value per 100 g aloe vera:
- Biotin: 0.00 µg
- Calcium: 28 mg
- Carbohydrates (Carbs): 0.80 g
- Chloride: 0.1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Choline: 3.2 mg
- Chromium: 0.2 µg
- Copper: 0.1 mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0.5 g
- Energy (Calories): 18 kcal
- Fat: 0.1 g
- Iodine: 0.1 µg
- Iron: 0.2 mg
- Magnesium: 8 mg
- Manganese: 0.2 mg
- Molybdenum: 0.1 µg
- Pantothenic Acid: 0.2 mg
- Phosphorus: 4 mg
- Potassium: 120 mg
- Protein: 0.4 g
- Saturated fat: 0 g
- Selenium: 0.1 µg
- Sodium: 0.2 mg
- Sugars: 0.3 g
- Vitamin A: 16 IU
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamin): 0.02 mg
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): 0.04 mg
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin): 0.1 mg
- Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): 0.2 mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.02 mg
- Vitamin B9 (Folate / Folic Acid): 0 mcg
- Vitamin B12: 0 mcg
- Vitamin C: 0.3 mg
- Vitamin D: 0 IU
- Vitamin E: 0 mg
- Vitamin K: 0.2 mcg
- Water: 99.5 g
- Zinc: 0.1 mg
Spiritual Beliefs
Aloe Vera has been used for thousands of years in spiritual practices, particularly in Hinduism and Buddhism. In Hinduism, it is used to symbolize purity, spiritual enlightenment, and the healing power of the sun. According to Buddhism, it is used to symbolize compassion, longevity, and the healing power of nature. In both traditions, it is believed that Aloe Vera has the ability to bring peace, balance, and harmony to the mind, body, and spirit. As such, it is also revered in spiritual practices as a symbol of healing and purification. Aloe vera is all-around medication. It is a tropical African plant that has been used medicinally since ancient times.
Home Remedies
The herb is good for treating burns, cancer and stomach ailments. It is good for acne, age spots, athlete’s foot, blisters, canker sores, dry hair, dry skin, heat rash , psoriasis, razor burn, sunburn, shingles, warts and wrinkles.
1. Allergies
For allergies, gargle with a mixture of aloe vera gel and lemon juice. The combination of aloe vera gel and lemon juice may help soothe throat irritation, reduce inflammation, and provide temporary relief from allergy symptoms. Drinking aloe vera juice can help soothe inflammation in the respiratory tract, which can reduce allergy symptoms. Incorporate aloe vera gel into smoothies with other anti-inflammatory ingredients like ginger, turmeric, and leafy greens. This can help boost your immune system and reduce allergy symptoms.
2. Insect Bite
It reduces inflammation and is soothing to the skin. You may apply aloe gel directly onto the hives, insect bites or stings for temporary relief. Aloe vera plants contain a cooling sap that will reduce irritation. If you have a plant, simply split open a leaf and apply it directly to the affected area. The sap remains liquid for several hours, so keep the leaf by you and simply reapply as the irritation develops. You can also keep a jar of aloe vera in the refrigerator to use for topical application.
3. Eczema
Aloe vera is a well known healing plant and is a fine remedy for eczema. Pinch a leaf off the plant and rub the juice right on the eczema condition. It can be beneficial for eczema due to its soothing and moisturizing properties. Take a small amount of aloe vera gel or cream and apply it directly to the eczema-affected skin. Massage the gel gently into the skin until it is absorbed. You can apply aloe vera multiple times a day, as needed, to soothe itching and discomfort.
4. Piles
If you have an aloe plant, bruise the leaf and the liquid can be used right on the site of the hemorrhoids. Before applying gently clean the area around the hemorrhoids with mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water. Pat the area dry with a soft towel or use a gentle, unscented baby wipe. Take a small amount of aloe vera gel on your clean fingers or a cotton ball. Gently apply the gel directly to the external hemorrhoids, covering the affected area with a thin layer of aloe vera. Use your fingers to massage the aloe vera gel into the skin around the hemorrhoids. You can apply it several times a day, especially after bowel movements or whenever you experience discomfort or itching. You can refrigerate the aloe vera gel before applying it to the hemorrhoids. The cooling sensation can help alleviate pain and reduce swelling.
5. Digestive Health
Aloe vera juice improves bowel movements. Take a quarter cup twice daily or as directed on container. To treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBM), ulcer, or kidney stone, drink 1⁄4 cup aloe vera juice twice daily or as directed on the container. It is very soothing and healing to the digestive tract, and it fights intestinal infection. In the treatment of Crohn’s disease, Take 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 cup three times daily or as directed on the container. Aloe soothes and heals the lining of the digestive tract.
6. Minor Burns and Sunburn
For minor first and second degree burns, use a leaf from an aloe plant for instant relief. Works best for stove or iron burns. Aloe helps the skin to heal. Take a fresh leaf, peel it and apply the pulp to treat burns. Applying aloe pulp on sunburns is also a good recommendation. If you don’t have fresh aloe leaf the try considering an aloe gel product (80 % or higher) and apply to the burned area twice daily. Aloe has a soothing effect and may stimulate skin healing. The gel from the plant leaves is the miracle cure for burns and cuts.
7. Skin Care
For age spots or blisters, spread the spots with aloe vera gel, straight from the leaves of a living plant, if possible. The plant contains chemicals that slough away dead cells and encourages the growth of new, healthy ones. Apply the gel once or twice a day. Aloe Vera is a well known remedy for inflamed and painful part of the body in the indigenous system of medicine. Take a leaf of the plant and peel on one side. Sprinkle a little turmeric and extract of Indian barberry on it. Bandage the leaf over the swelling after warming.
8. Acidity
For acid reflux, take 1 to 2 tablespoons of aloe vera juice three times daily or as directed. It promotes healing and soothes the digestive tract. If new to aloe vera juice, start with 1-2 ounces per day. Consume 15-20 minutes before meals to prevent acidity symptoms. Monitor your body’s response. Stay hydrated and dilute juice if too concentrated.
9. Women’s Health
Aloe vera is an emmenagogue, which means that it brings on the menstrual period if it’s behind schedule. This is particularly true of the aloe if taken as a powder or pill. So it’ s fine to take to bring on the menses, but dangerous if you’re pregnant. Some women topically use aloe vera gel to alleviate vaginal discomfort or irritation, such as that caused by yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis, although it’s essential to seek medical advice before using aloe vera in the vaginal area. Additionally, while there isn’t robust scientific evidence, some women believe that consuming aloe vera juice or supplements may help relieve menstrual cramps due to its anti-inflammatory properties, though further research is needed to confirm its efficacy.
Aloe Vera Gel
The leaves of the plant produce a natural product known as aloe vera gel. It is a thick, clear gel with many therapeutic benefits. You can use the gel to treat skin conditions such as sunburn, rashes, cuts, and scrapes. It also helps reduce inflammation, redness, and improves skin tone. Furthermore, the gel possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it an excellent choice for treating acne. Additionally, it serves as a natural conditioner for the hair.
How To Make Aloe Vera Gel At Home?
- Cut a few of the outer leaves from the plant and peel away the green skin to reveal the clear aloe vera gel inside.
- Place the peeled leaves in a blender and blend until smooth.
- Pour the blended gel into a bowl and mix in a few drops of essential oil, if desired.
- Transfer the gel to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
How To Store Aloe Vera Gel?
You can store aloe vera gel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Storing the gel in the refrigerator helps to preserve its nutrients and keep it from spoiling. When you’re ready to use it, take the gel out of the refrigerator and let it reach room temperature before using.
How To Use Aloe Vera Gel for Face Skin?
- Cleanse your face with a mild cleanser and pat dry with a soft towel.
- Take a small amount of pure aloe vera gel and apply it evenly to your face.
- Massage the gel into your skin using gentle, circular motions.
- Allow the gel to absorb into your skin for 20-30 minutes.
- Rinse with warm water.
- Finish off with a light moisturizer.
How To Use Aloe Vera Gel for Hair Growth?
- Mix 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel with 1 tablespoon each of coconut oil and olive oil.
- Apply the mixture to your scalp and massage it in gently.
- Leave it on for at least an hour, or overnight if possible.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water and shampoo.
- Repeat this process twice a week for best results.
- You can also use aloe vera gel as a leave-in conditioner. Apply a small amount to damp hair and style as usual.
Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe vera juice is a natural drink made from the gel of the plant. It has a variety of health benefits, including helping to reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and boost immunity. It can also help to hydrate the body, detoxify the system, and improve skin health. People typically consume juice cold, and it often has a slightly bitter taste that some find unpleasant.
How To Make Aloe Vera Juice at Home?
- Start by washing the aloe vera plant.
- Cut off one of the leaves and cut it into two pieces.
- Scoop out the gel from the leaf using a spoon and place it into a blender.
- Add 1 cup of water, 1/4 cup of lemon juice, and 1/4 cup of honey to the blender.
- Blend the ingredients together until smooth.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth to remove any solids.
- Pour the juice into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Enjoy your homemade aloe vera juice!
How To Take Aloe Vera Juice?
You can consume aloe vera juice either on its own or mixed into a smoothie or juice. For optimal results, it’s suggested to take 2-3 ounces of juice daily on an empty stomach, preferably in the morning. Alternatively, it can be consumed at night before bed. If you experience any digestive discomfort, reduce intake to 1-2 ounces a day.
Health Benefits of Drinking Juice Empty Stomach In The Morning
Externally it is good remedy for burns, scrapes, canker sores and general wound healing. Internally the herb can help to heal inflammatory bowel disease, ulcers, candida, intestinal infections, constipation, and other disorders of the digestive tract, psoriasis, and diabetes.
- Boosts Immunity: Juice is rich in antioxidants and vitamins A, C, and E which help to reduce inflammation and protect the body from free radical damage. It also contains plenty of minerals to help boost immunity.
- Detoxification: It helps to detoxify the body by stimulating the liver and flushing toxins out of the body. It helps to remove waste from the body and improve digestion.
- Improves Digestion: Drinking this juice on an empty stomach in the morning will help to stimulate the production of stomach acid, which helps to break down food and absorb nutrients. It also helps to reduce inflammation in the digestive system.
- Improves Skin Health: It contains compounds that can help to improve skin health by hydrating it and reducing inflammation. It can help to reduce acne and blemishes, and keep the skin looking healthy and youthful.
- Aids in Weight Loss: Juice is a great way to help with weight loss as it is low in calories and can help to reduce appetite. It can also help to regulate blood sugar levels, which can aid in weight loss.
Side Effects
- The most common side effects of aloe vera juice include stomach discomfort, diarrhea, and electrolyte imbalance. Other reports of side effects include kidney problems, blood in the urine, low potassium levels, muscle weakness, weight loss, and anemia.
- People with conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disease should exercise caution when consuming juice as it may interact with certain medications.
- Stay away from aloe if you are pregnant. Aloe latex form (not commonly available) should not be taken by people with inflammatory bowel disease, pregnant or nursing mothers, or children.
Grow Aloe Vera Plant At Home
- Start with a healthy plant. Aloe vera plants can be purchased at most nurseries or garden centers. Choose a plant that is plump and green with no signs of wilting or discoloration.
- Plant in well-draining soil. The plants prefer a gritty, sandy soil with good drainage. You can purchase a pre-made aloe potting mix or create your own with equal parts of potting soil and perlite.
- Place in a sunny spot. Plant need plenty of light to thrive. Place the plant in a sunny spot near a window or outdoors. Avoid direct midday sun, which can scorch the leaves.
- Water sparingly. This plant is drought-tolerant and should only be watered when the soil is completely dry. Water the soil directly, avoiding the leaves.
- Feed once a month. During the growing season (spring through summer), feed your plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength.
- Prune as needed. To encourage bushier growth, remove any dead or damaged leaves. If your plant is getting too large, you can also trim off the top portion and replant it in a separate pot.
How To Repot Aloe?
- Remove the aloe plant from its pot and gently brush away any excess soil from the roots.
- Fill a new pot with a potting mix specifically designed for succulents, cacti and aloe plants.
- Place the aloe plant in the center of the new pot and fill in the sides with more soil.
- Water the aloe plant thoroughly to help the soil settle around the roots.
- Place the aloe plant in a sunny spot and water it every other week, or when the top inch of soil is dry.
How To Take Care or Look After Aloe Vera Plant?
- Plant the aloe vera in a pot with a drainage hole in the bottom. Use a light, well-draining soil.
- Place the pot in a bright, sunny spot. Plants need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
- Water the plant deeply, but infrequently. Aloe plants should be watered approximately once every two to three weeks. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. During the winter months, water less frequently, approximately once a month.
- Feed the plant a balanced, diluted fertilizer once a month during the spring and summer months.
- Remove dead or damaged leaves from the plant to encourage growth.
- Repot the plant every two to three years. Use a pot that’s slightly bigger than the current one.
- Inspect the plant regularly for pests such as aphids, mealybugs, or spider mites. Prune away any infested areas or treat the plant with an insecticidal soap.
FAQs.
Q. Why my aloe vera gel turns red?
Aloe vera gel may turn red for a variety of reasons. In some cases, it may be due to oxidation, which is a natural process that occurs when the plant is exposed to air. This can cause the gel to change color from green to red. Additionally, some species of aloe vera may naturally turn red when exposed to sunlight. This is due to a pigment in the plant that is activated by UV light. Finally, some aloe vera gels may contain added ingredients or natural dyes that turn them red.
Q. Which aloe vera gel is the best?
There are many brands of gel available in India, and it can be difficult to choose which is best. Some of the top rated gels include Patanjali, Himalaya Herbals, Biotique Bio, Khadi Natural, and Jovees Ayurveda Soothing & Moisturizing Aloe Vera Gel.
Q. How much aloe vera juice to drink everyday?
The amount of juice you should drink every day depends on your health needs and the type of aloe vera juice you are drinking. Generally, it is recommended to start off slowly with 1-2 ounces of juice per day and gradually increase the amount over time. However, be sure to consult with your doctor before adding aloe vera juice to your diet.
Q. When is the best time to drink aloe vera juice?
The best time to drink aloe vera juice is in the morning on an empty stomach. Drinking juice in the morning can help promote digestive health, improve immunity, and provide energy.
Q. Which aloe vera juice is the best?
The best Aloe Vera Juice in India is Organic India and Patanjali Aloevera Juice. It is 100% pure and natural, and contains no added sugar, preservatives or artificial colors. It is also certified organic, which ensures that it is free from any harmful pesticides and chemicals.
Q. How to propagate aloe vera from cutting or leaf without roots?
- Separate an aloe leaf from the plant. Cut off a lower leaf that is at least 6 inches long, using a sharp knife or scissors.
- Cut the leaf into 3-inch pieces. Make sure each piece has some of the aloe gel attached.
- Place the cut pieces in a shallow bowl of warm water and let them sit for at least an hour.
- Fill a pot with potting soil and make several 2-inch deep holes in it.
- Place the cut pieces of the aloe leaf in the holes in the potting soil. Make sure that the pieces are placed at least an inch apart.
- Cover the potting soil with a thin layer of sand.
- Water the pot lightly and make sure the soil remains moist.
- Place the pot in a warm spot that receives plenty of indirect sunlight.
- Monitor the soil and water it regularly if it becomes dry.
- In a few weeks, you should begin to see the aloe plants taking root. When the plants are established, you can transplant them into individual pots.
Q. Why my aloe vera plant turns red, brown or yellow?
Aloe vera plants can turn red, brown, or yellow when they are exposed to too much direct sunlight, when they are getting too much water, or when they are under water stress. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves of the plant to burn, turn brown, or become yellow from sun scorch. Too much water can cause root rot and yellowing of the leaves. When a plant is under water stress, the leaves may turn yellow or brown due to dehydration.