Benefits and Uses of Aloe Vera In Everyday Life

Understanding The Science Behind Aloe Vera

The plant of immortality aka. Aloe Vera has been known for its anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, and healing properties for centuries. Aloe vera is widely used in skincare products but has several additional health advantages. Extracted in gel form from the aloe vera plant (Aloe barbadensis) directly, it is a powerhouse of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.

Aloe Vera, the medicinal plant contains more than 75 active ingredients including vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B9, and vitamin B12, and minerals like calcium, copper, sodium, magnesium, potassium, selenium, manganese, zinc, etc. It is an excellent remedy for skin, hair, and health problems. Aloe vera's potent properties keep improving health in numerous ways, including blood sugar regulation and wound healing. In today’s blog, we are going to discuss the myriad of benefits of aloe vera in everyday life. Continue reading to find out the possible advantages and uses of aloe vera.

Benefits of Aloe Vera for Skin

Aloe Vera is renowned for its skin-soothing properties. When it comes to skin, aloe vera can be applied directly as a gel. These can also be found in products with aloe vera extracts and as ointments. The benefits of aloe vera on the skin are mentioned below:

1. Provides soothing properties: By providing the skin with deep hydration, it is an excellent moisturizer for dry and sensitive skin. While keeping the skin soft and smooth, it restores the elasticity of the skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, showcasing its anti-aging benefits. Aloe vera gel is applied topically on the skin to reduce irritation and treat severe skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis by addressing inflammation.
   Fixderma Fidelia Nourishing Body Lotion is an expert-recommended nourishing body lotion, to give your dry, flaky, and sensitive skin a surge of moisture. With a pH-balanced formulation of 5.5, this lightweight, quickly absorbing body lotion deeply hydrates and soothes by sealing in moisture.
2. Treats burn: The ‘aloin’ present in aloe vera is an excellent remedy for sunburn including first and second-degree burns. It manages the flaking, dryness, and tingling sensation that occurs as a result of burn.
   Fixderma Cleovera Cream is a unique protective cream with a combination of Aloe vera, RetiStar, and Vitamin E, ideal for replenishing & softening the skin.
   Fixderma Shadow Sun Burn Gel comes with the goodness of gel trap technology and is enriched with naturally calming agents like aloe vera, antileukine 6 & vitamin E, which offers immediate comfort, making it an essential post-sun solution.
3. Repair wounds: For small cuts and wounds, aloe vera gel can be applied directly to the area. It has a molecular structure that fastens the process of healing by boosting collagen production and preventing bacterial growth and diminishes the scars and blemishes as well.
   Fixderma Cleovera Cica Cream is an effective and gentle moisturizer that comforts the skin while helping strengthen the skin barrier. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and calm irritated skin.
4. Remedy for cold sores: Cold sores, also known as fever blisters are a common viral infection that are seen as fluid-filled blisters around the lips. Aloe vera directly acts on the herpes virus that causes the sores and reduces the visible blisters.
5. Reduces acne:  Aloe vera prevents acne with its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It removes accumulated sebum, pathogens, and dirt that are accumulated in the pores that cause acne.
   Salyzap Daily Face Cleanser is a soap-free anti-acne face wash, designed to effectively combat acne while being gentle on the skin. It exfoliates the keratinized skin & removes excess sebum from the pores without stripping off the natural oils from the skin.

Aloe Vera for Hair Growth

Aloe Vera is a boon in hair health. Proteolytic enzymes such as alkaline phosphatase, amylase, bradykinase, catalase, lipase, protease, creatine phosphokinase, carboxypeptidase, cellulase, oxidase, and superoxide dismutase are present in aloe vera. Aloe vera has several effects on hair, including soothing an inflamed scalp and enhancing luster. Listed below are a few:

1. Soothes itchy scalp: Itchiness on the scalp arises due to several reasons. Dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis, and psoriasis are a few common causes and the fatty acids present in aloe vera relieves the itchiness by breaking down the buildup on the scalp and removing excess sebum from the pores.
2. Deep cleans oily scalp and hair: By removing the dirt and excess oil present on the hair and follicles, aloe vera is a gentle yet effective cleanser for the hair. It also improves the hair texture and makes it shinier and softer. Massaging aloe vera gel into the hair also improves blood circulation to the head.
3. Repairs hair: With the help of folic acid, vitamins A, B12, C, and E present in them, aloe vera reduces hair fall, and increases cell turnover thereby promoting healthy hair growth.

Aloe Vera Juice Benefits

Aloe Vera gel is incredibly versatile when it comes to overall health. From healing wounds to managing weight, the uses of aloe vera are many. See how aloe vera may benefit your health in ways other than skin and hair below:

1. Manages Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD includes symptoms like constant heartburn, nausea, vomiting, acid reflux etc. Consumption of aloe vera juice calms down the digestive tract lining, curing these symptoms.
2. Detoxing: Consuming aloe vera juice on an empty stomach flushes out the toxins present in the body and improves digestion.
3. Benefits to oral health: Aloe vera juice can be used as an alternative to mouthwash as it reduces plaque and inflamed gums with the help of its anti-bacterial properties.
4. Reduces the Blood sugar levels: Aloe vera juice effectively manages the blood sugar levels of the body.
5. Immunity booster: Known for its powerful anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera fights infections caused by bacteria, viruses and fungi. It contains polysaccharides and glycoproteins, compounds that support the immune system.

Aloe Vera Gel Preparation at Home

Aloe vera gel can easily be prepared at home using aloe vera leaves. It's always a good idea to prepare aloe vera gel by yourself as store-bought ones may contain harmful ingredients. Follow the steps below to prepare natural aloe vera gel that benefits your skin and hair.

What you need:

1 or 2 aloe vera leaves, a spoon, blender, air-tight container, Vitamin C or E(optional)

Step 1: Preparation of aloe vera leaves

Cut off one or two leaves from the base of the plant and wash it well to remove any dirt and toxins present on it. To remove the latex in the resin which may irritate the skin, stand the leaves upright in a bowl for 10-15 minutes. You’ll see a yellow-tinted material draining out of the leaf by itself through this process.

Step 2: Extraction of aloe vera gel

Using a knife, peel off the outer layer of the leaf. Using a spoon, scoop out the gel and add it into a blender. Blend the mixture till it reaches the consistency of a frothy fluid.

Step 3: Adding vitamins

If needed, you can always add vitamin C or vitamin E to this gel to improve its benefits and shelf life. For every ¼ cup of aloe vera gel, you can add 500 mg of either Vitamin C or Vitamin E.

Storage: Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Remember, aloe vera gel lasts up to 1 week only. Hence, use only 1 or 2 leaves, necessary for your skin.

Aloe Vera Face Masks

DIY Aloe Vera face masks can provide a spa-like experience at home by rejuvenating your skin. The natural ingredients work synergistically to enhance the healing properties of Aloe Vera, providing your skin with the care it deserves. The following is a list of easy aloe vera masks that you can prepare yourself:

1. Aloe vera mask for skin rejuvenation:
   Ingredients needed: Aloe vera extract, Rosewater
   Preparation: Mix 1 tablespoon of aloe vera extract with 1 tablespoon of rose water. Make it into a smooth paste and apply it on the face. Wait for 15-20 minutes and rinse off.
2. Aloe vera face mask for dehydrated skin:
   Ingredients needed: Aloe vera gel, Honey, Banana
   Preparation: Mix 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel, 1 tablespoon of honey and one mashed banana into a paste. Apply the mixture on the face and let it sit for 25-30  minutes. Wash off with water.
3. Aloe vera brightening face mask:
   Ingredients: Aloe vera gel, Lemon
   Preparation: Add 5-6 drops of lemon juice into 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel. Mix well and apply it on the face. Wait for 20-25 minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water.
4. Aloe vera face mask for oily skin:
   Ingredients: Aloe vera gel, Water, Tea tree oil
   Preparation: Combine 1 tablespoon water, 2 tablespoons aloe vera gel, and 2 to 3 drops of tea tree oil. Apply the mixture on the face and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Wash off with water to get glowing skin.
5. Aloe vera face mask for nourishment
   Ingredients: Aloe vera gel, Vitamin E capsule
   Preparation: Mix 1 vitamin E capsule into 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel and apply it on the face. Once the mixture is dried, wash off with water.
6. Aloe vera face mask for hydration:
   Ingredients: Aloe vera gel, cucumber
   Preparation: Cut the cucumber into half, peel and blend it till it acquires a watery texture. Add 2 teaspoons of aloe vera gel into it and mix well. Apply it on the face and wait for 15-20 minutes. You can even leave it overnight and wash it off with water.
7. Aloe vera face mask for exfoliation:
   Ingredients: Aloe vera gel, apple cider vinegar, water
   Preparation: Mix 2 teaspoons of aloe vera gel, half a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon of water in a bowl. Apply the mixture to the face. Let it sit for 20 minutes and rinse off with water.
8. Aloe vera face mask for skin irritation:
   Ingredients: Aloe vera gel, Green tea leaves
   Preparation: Soak green tea leaves in water to moisten them and apply equal parts of aloe vera gel to them. Apply this on the skin and wait for 15 minutes. Rinse off with water.

Key Takeaways

There is absolutely no doubt that aloe vera is a true healer with a wide range of benefits that address not just the skin and hair but overall health.  From soothing sunburns to promoting hair growth, and even aiding in digestive health, aloe vera’s versatility makes it a must-have in any wellness routine. Even though additional studies are being done to determine more possible uses of aloe vera, the uses that are known to date are recognized to be useful are successful. Incorporating aloe vera into your daily routines, whether through topical application or internal consumption, can provide a natural alternative to many over-the-counter treatments.

However, it's important to do a patch test before adding aloe vera to your skincare routine to rule out the possibility of allergy. In case of any irritation, it is advised to visit a dermatologist immediately.

Remember, aloe vera continues to be trusted as a natural remedy and has been valued for good reasons. Add this healer to your beauty and health regimen today and trust us, your body will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the key benefits of using Aloe Vera on my skin?
   Aloe Vera is highly effective for soothing and moisturizing the skin, reducing irritation, and treating conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and sunburn. It also has anti-aging properties by helping to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and it accelerates wound healing by boosting collagen production.
2. How does Aloe Vera benefit hair health?
   Aloe Vera promotes hair health by soothing an itchy scalp, reducing dandruff, deep-cleaning oily hair, and enhancing shine. It also strengthens hair, reduces hair fall, and promotes healthy hair growth through its rich blend of vitamins, enzymes, and minerals.
3. Can I make my own Aloe Vera gel at home, and how do I store it?
   Yes, you can prepare Aloe Vera gel at home by extracting it directly from the Aloe Vera leaf. To store it, transfer the gel into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. Homemade Aloe Vera gel lasts up to one week, so it's best to make small quantities as needed.