Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a really popular plant that has a lot of medicinal properties to it that originated in the souther half of the arabian peninsula and it typically grows in arid climates in places like Africa and India. Aloe vera has lots of thick leaves with small white serrations on it and it flowers during the summer. Aloe vera is widely cultivated throughout the world and is very popular as a household plant and even more so with holistic treatments centers and similar places that often tout the plants natural healing abilities. Aloe is extremely easy to grow and does will in low maintenance gardens that get little water or have less than ideal soil. It’s resistant to most bugs and diseases but doesn’t do as well with frost and colder temperatures.

There are lots of cosmetic and medicinal uses to which aloe vera has been applied and is claimed to be useful. There are records of aloe vera being used and cultivated medicinally as far back as the sixth century and though few of the claims most advocates of aloe vera make have been tested or supported with any scientific evidence it is still a very popular plant that is used in many commercial products as well as home treatments. Aloe era is used in many different forms such as in makeup, tissues, soaps, razors, shampoos, incense, moisturizers and so forth and is even put in some foods like yogurt. Aloe vera is also thought to be helpful in the treatment or prevention of many illnesses. It’s a very popular remedy for sunburns and it’s pretty common to see beach goers slathering themselves with aloe vera as a remedy or a form or prevention even though it hasn’t been scientifically established to work as an effective sunscreen. Aloe vera is also thought to improve blood glucose levels, reduce inflammation, aid in fighting caners, inhibit the growth of fungi (as aloe vera is antibacterial and antifungal), as well as heal general first and second degree burns. It’s commonly used as a moisturizer and to soothe irritated skin in harsh weather.

Aloe vera that is used mainly as a topical ointment also has lots of good uses as well. Aloe vera is a popular choice for aches and pains because they respond well to the gel and it’s also a popular choice for clearing up acne. Aloe vera helps clear excess bacteria on the skin and does a good job of moisturizing the skin which can help reduce oil and sebum production allowing for clearer skin. Many people also believe that it can reduce wrinkles and it’s recommended for things like eczema and razor burn too. Aloe vera can also be helpful for fungal diseases, parasites, yeast infections, hemorrhoids, and other infections or rashes. Cuts and wounds that have aloe vera gel applied to them are said to heal faster and scar less than those without the use of the gel.

Aloe vera is an extremely useful plant and it’s one that no home should be without. You can easily grow it in a pot on your windowsill and soon you’ll have an on hand remedy for a variety of all different conditions.