Aloe vera is a plant that has multipurpose uses from the skin, to hair, to treating bodily ailments; it is a solution to most problems and this is because aloe vera is a medicinal plant and it can be used directly (as fresh gel or juice) or by buying it in the form of commercial products like aloe vera based creams, ointments, gels, etc.
Here are 7 common problems you can solve using aloe vera:
1. Constipation
The digestive system is important for absorbing the nutrients from the food you consume. Aloe vera contains enzymes that help breakdown the sugars and fats and helps aid digestion in a smooth manner. Aloe vera juice also helps people suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Consumption of aloe vera juice can have a laxative effect on the bowels. This effect is possible because of the substance aloin present in the leaves.
How to use: You can use aloe vera for the purpose of constipation by drinking it as aloe vera juice or adding it to a smoothie.
2. Sunburn
Aloe vera oil 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. When the skin gets sunburnt, it loses all its moisture and becomes dry. Using aloe vera get can help the skin retain its moisture as aloe vera contains a substance called mucopolysaccharides.
How 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 sunburnt area of your skin.
3. Hair Loss
Aloe vera can help reduce hair breakage and stimulate the hair follicles to promote hair growth by contributing to cell turnover which is a natural process that involves the constant shedding of dead skin cells and the replacement of it with younger skin cells, over a period of time. It can also help increase hair shine and give your hair a natural glow.
How to use: You can use either commercially bought aloe vera gel or preferably use the freshly extracted gel of the aloe vera plant to add to your deep conditioning hair mask. You can also use aloe vera oil to massage your scalp and hair.
4. Acne
A lot of people suffer from skin problems like rash or acne. It 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.
How to use: You can drink aloe vera juice on a daily basis as it acts as an anti-acne medicine.
5. 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. It can help promote hair growth as it helps cleanse and nourish the scalp.
How 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 a mild shampoo. Make sure to condition your hair thereafter. Do this at least 2 to 3 times a week until dandruff goes away.
6. 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.
How 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.
7. Razor Burns
Aloe vera is rich in vitamins and can contribute to cell turnover, a natural process that involves the constant shedding of dead skin cells and the replacement of it with younger skin cells, over a period of time. It also has anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties that can help cure and heal skin ailments. It can also help lighten the skin and reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone and complexion.
How 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.
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 to the wounded area.
General caution tips:
- Do not overconsume aloe vera juice and have it in moderate quantities as it can have a laxative effect if taken in excess.
- Patch testing while using aloe vera for the skin is always recommended.
- 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.
- 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.