Aloe vera is one of the most versatile natural ingredients that can be used in numerous ways. From boosting body immunity to treating skin conditions to improving hair health and many more, aloe vera is the perfect ingredient to use. Check out the different ways you can use aloe vera in your daily lives, below!
Here are the 10 best ways to use aloe vera gel:
- To get rid of dandruff
Aloe vera can calm and ease itchiness on the scalp, for people with dandruff. It can reduce the itchiness and flaking of the skin under your hair, as it has anti-inflammatory properties and can also reduce scalp inflammation caused by dandruff.
To use: Freshly extract the gel from the aloe vera leaf and apply it all over your scalp and leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes, before rinsing off with plain water. Do this at least 2 to 3 times a week until dandruff goes away.
- To clear stretch marks
Aloe vera is known to help reduce scarring and has been sued to lighten pigmented areas of the skin. It is known to have reparative properties which could help prevent further formation of stretch marks, while enhancing the fading process of the already existing stretch marks.
To use: You could massage a little aloe vera gel (fresh or commercially bought) over the stretch marks on the skin and leave it on for 20 minutes before washing off. Repeat this every day until the stretch marks disappear.
- To reduce acne
Aloe vera contains vitamin C and vitamin E which are helpful to keep one’s skin healthy and radiant. Aloe vera also is loaded with antioxidants that can promote healing and also prevent further acne formation.
To use: You can drink aloe vera juice on a daily basis as it acts as an anti-acne medicine.
- To provide relief from sunburns
Aloe vera contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the skin and reduce pain, swelling and redness in the area of inflammation. It is also cooling and has moisturizing properties.
To use: You can use either commercially bought aloe vera gel or preferably use the freshly extracted gel of the aloe vera plant to gently lather over the affected/sunburnt area of your skin.
- To prevent hair loss
Aloe vera can help reduce hair loss as it helps cleanse and nourish the scalp and can then decrease hair breakage. It can stimulate the hair follicles to promote hair growth.
To use: Combine ¼ cup of aloe vera juice along with ½ cup of water in a spray bottle. Shake it well and then randomly spray it all over your hair.
Add 1/4 cup of aloe vera gel and coconut oil to a saucepan and cook on low flame for 15 mins. Use this oil to gently massage in circular motions and let it sit for half an hour before washing off with a mid-shampoo and conditioner.
- To provide relief from constipation
Aloe vera also contains enzymes which help breakdown the sugars and fats and helps aid digestion in a smooth manner. Aloe vera juice helps people suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Consumption of aloe vera juice can also have a laxative effect on the bowels.
To consume: You can use aloe vera for the purpose of constipation by drinking it as aloe vera juice or adding it into a smoothie. You can consume around 2 tablespoons a day.
- To treat and cure burns
Aloe vera is rich in vitamins and can contribute to cell turnover. It also has anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties that can help cure and heal skin ailments.
To use: You can use either commercially bought aloe vera gel or preferably use the freshly extracted gel of the aloe vera plant to gently lather over the wounded area of the skin.
Alternatively, you could also make a mixture of 1 tsp of aloe vera oil, ¼ tsp organic turmeric powder and ½ tsp honey and apply it on the wounded area.
- To improve skin tone
Aloe vera can act as an anti-acne medicine. It contains vitamin C and vitamin E which are helpful to keep one’s skin healthy and radiant.
To use: You can mix together 1 tsp amla powder, 1/4 tsp organic turmeric powder, and 1 tbsp aloe vera gel. Then apply this mask evenly all over the face and leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes to dry up.
After 10 to 15 minutes, gently peel it off your face by dampening your skin with lukewarm water and then rinsing your face with lukewarm water until the mask has completely come off. Lastly, wash your face with a mild cleanser and pat dry it with a towel.
- To increase hair growth
Aloe vera can help reduce hair breakage and stimulate the hair follicles to promote hair growth by contributing to cell turnover over a period of time. It can also help increase hair shine and give your hair a natural glow.
To use: You can massage aloe vera oil on your scalp and hair. You can also use either commercially bought aloe vera gel or preferably use the freshly extracted juice to add into your deep conditioning hair mask.
- To boost overall health and immunity
Aloe vera is packed with nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B12, folic acid, choline, enzymes, minerals, sugars, salicylic acid, lignin, saponins and amino acids. Therefore, it can help boost overall health and improve one’s immunity.
To consume: You can drink 2 tbsp of fresh liquid aloe vera juice or dilute 2 tbsp of aloe vera gel (from the leaf) with a glass of water in a blender until smooth and then consume on an empty stomach every morning.
Is aloe vera safe for use and consumption by everyone? Here are some general tips to consider while using or consuming aloe vera:
- Patch testing while using aloe vera for the skin is always recommended.
- Do not overconsume aloe vera juice and have it in moderate quantities as it can have a laxative effect if taken in excess.
- If you have any side effects after consuming aloe vera juice, make sure to stop its consumption with immediate effect and consult a medical professional.
- Those who have other medical complications or those who are taking prescription medications are recommended to consult a medical professional before consuming aloe vera juice.
- Pregnant or lactating mothers should consult a doctor before consuming aloe vera juice.