Aloe vera Plant Benefits and side effects

 

Aloe vera plant good or bad for humans? 

Dr.N.K.Manoharan

For thousands of years, people have used the popular medicinal plant aloe vera. It is also known as Aloe barbadense, is a shrub with a short, thick stem and water-retaining leaves. There are numerous health benefits. In this article, we'll look at some of the risks of using aloe vera as well as its potential health benefits.

Aloe vera has a global market value of $12 to14 billion and is extensively used in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and food industries. It is good for treating skin injuries. Do you understand how crucial this plant is? The thick, pointy, meaty green leaves are 12–19 inches (30–50 cm) long. The leaves have the appearance of being very thick due to water retention. This fluid tissue is the "gel" found in aloe vera leaves. This gel contains all of the plant's essential bioactive substances, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants.

Aloe vera gel contains plenty of polyphenol antioxidants. It is essential for your health. Different compounds found in aloe vera are effective at stopping the development of some bacteria that can infect humans. Additionally, it has antiseptic, antibacterial, and antiviral properties that aid in the treatment of skin conditions and the healing of wounds.

People commonly use aloe vera externally to address skin ailments rather than ingesting it. In reality, it is quite effective at healing wounds, particularly sunburn. According to research, it is one of the most effective topical remedies for first- and second-degree burns. For example, studies have shown that using aloe vera instead of standard therapies can reduce the duration of burn symptoms by around 7 to 9 days. It also helps to avoid redness, irritation, and infection. Although there is limited evidence that aloe vera helps treat other types of wounds, a study is underway.

Tooth decay and gum disease are two of the most frequent health issues nowadays. The easiest method to avoid these diseases is to eliminate plaque or bacterial biofilm formation on the teeth. Researchers tested 100% pure aloe vera juice against the conventional mouthwash component chlorhexidine and discovered that after four to five days of usage, aloe vera mouthwash was just as efficient as chlorhexidine at reducing tooth plaque. Aloe vera has been shown to destroy the oral bacteria Streptococcus mutans as well as the yeast Candida albicans.

Most people have mouth ulcers or sores at some point in their lives. These often appear under the lips and within the mouth and stay for approximately a week. Aloe vera has been demonstrated in studies to be quite beneficial in treating this illness. Another study discovered that aloe vera gel not only hastened the healing of mouth ulcers but also decreased the discomfort associated with them.

The yellow latex found behind the epidermis of the aloe vera leaf is excellent for relieving constipation. Aloe vera contains aloin or barbaloin, the principal chemical that produces this; however, how safe it is to use on a regular basis has yet to be proven, and aloe vera does not appear to be beneficial against diarrhoea, heartburn, or other gastrointestinal disorders.

According to preliminary research, aloe vera gel may help slow the ageing process of the skin. In a 2009 study, aloe vera gel consumption boosted collagen formation and skin elasticity over the course of 90 days in 30 women over the age of 45. Aloe vera may help the skin retain moisture and enhance skin health, which is advantageous for dry skin, according to studies. Acne, psoriasis, and eczema are some conditions that are treated with aloe vera.

Aloe vera is occasionally used as a diabetic treatment. because it improves blood sugar management and promotes insulin sensitivity. Some studies, for example, have discovered that aloe vera may assist people with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes because of its influence on glycaemic management.

Aloe vera is a safe therapy with few adverse effects, according to organisations such as the National Centre for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). However, due to its laxative properties, consuming aloe vera by mouth may cause stomach discomfort or diarrhea. Long-term aloe vera supplement use can sometimes cause liver damage. 

If you are pregnant or nursing, do not consume aloe. When used cautiously for skin issues in children, aloe vera gel is harmless. Aloe latex and entire aloe leaf extracts are not suitable for young people to consume. Abdominal discomfort, constipation, and diarrhoea are common in children under the age of 12. However, aloe vera gel is 80% water and includes a variety of vitamins, nutrients, and minerals, all of which contribute to smooth, bright skin. Some individuals may feel irritation or moderate burning while using aloe vera on their skin and should discontinue usage immediately. Aloe vera gel is perfectly safe for seniors to use daily; however, it is not advised to apply it to diseased skin. If you have a tomato, onion, or garlic allergy, avoid using aloe vera. Aloe vera shouldn't be consumed two weeks before any planned procedure. Children under 12 and those who are pregnant, nursing, or both should not consume aloe vera juice. On dry skin, it is preferable to use aloe vera in the morning and at night. Once it has dried, rinse it off with cold water. Avoid rubbing it on your face, especially the sensitive skin around your eyes. However, it is crucial to get the advice of a skilled doctor before taking it. Self-medication is very risky. That is all I have to say at this time regarding this plant.