Aloe Vera

Written by Dr. Emma, MD
Edited by Marc Gamboa

Also called as “plant of immortality” and “wand of heaven”, this spiky, green gem succulent plant is a member of genus “Aloe” that grows wild in tropical climates around the world. Known for its agricultural and medicinal use, aloe vera has a rich history of ancient times and personalities, like Cleopatra who used this plant as her beauty regimen. Extracts of this miraculous plant are widely used in preparing topical agents, tonics and medicines in cosmetics and pharmaceutical industry. Some people also grow aloe vera for decorative purposes.

More than 70 active ingredients have been discovered in aloe vera. Let’s have a look at its ingredient list

• Vitamins (Vitamin A, C, E, B1,B2,B3,B5,B6,B12)

• Fatty acids (salicylic acid, linoliec acid, linolenic acid, arachidonic acid)

• Minerals (Iron, copper , calcium, manganese, zinc, silicon)

• Sugars (acemannan, polysaccharides)

• Anthraquinones

• Enzymes, saponins, lignin, aminoacids

Aloe Vera Skin Benefits

Leaves of aloe vera produce two substances gel and sap, former is a mixture of water and other nutrients while later constitutes for latex formation. Apart from its cosmetic and tonic use, it is an excellent remedy for many common skin problems.

Prevents Premature Signs of Aging

Decrease in collagen production and other environmental factors (diet and pollutants) are thought to be the number one cause of wrinkles and fine lines. Dryness and loss of elasticity are other major contributory factors. Aloe vera helps in preventing these early signs of aging through its exfoliating properties. It also tightens the skin by stimulating collagen synthesis.

Anti-inflammatory action

Wounds, blunt traumas and injuries are often followed by infection. Aloe vera can be used as topical agent to treat small cuts, scars, insect bites and infections due to its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. It is also useful in reducing inflammatory redness and itching.

Moisturizes Skin

There are many skin moisturizers out there, however approximately all come up with a single or more than one side effect such as folliculitis, irritation and allergic reaction. Pure aloe vera is excellent moisturizers that help restore your skin moisture and locks the hydration for a longer period of time without leaving any greasy mark or side effect.

Treat acne

Acne is a common skin problem resulting from attack of bacteria “Propionibacterium Acnes”. Aloe vera readily penetrates the outer membranes of bacteria and cause massive damage to them. Due to such anti-microbial property, it is considered as an excellent remedy against acne.

Helps with Sunburns

Our skin is in constant contact with harmful rays of sunlight that often results in sunburns and soreness of skin. Free radicals (reactive oxygen species) in UV light cause massive damage to the skin. Aloe vera is an active ingredient of many after-sun creams and sun blockers as it reduces the itching and pain associated with sunburn.