Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera was called “the plant of immortality” by the Egyptians as its therapeutic value is immense. The leaf of aloe vera cannot not be eaten as whole in an attempt to tap its therapeutic potential. The whole leaf when eaten is very bitter to taste and an intestinal irritant with a strong laxative effect. The aloe vera leaf consists of three layers- the outer layer, a corrugated lining just beneath the outer layer and the inner gelatinous layer. The latex (juice) derived from the corrugated layer is the source of the laxative properties. The inner gelatinous layer has a whole range of therapeutic benefits. Commercial ointments are available plenty full but using fresh aloe gel from a broken leaf is the most effective. 

Effective for: 

       Topical

  • Cellutitis 
  • Frostbite 
  • Minor skin irritations 
  • Sunburn 
  • Wound healing (for superficial wounds only, not deep or surgical wounds) 
       Oral
  • AIDS
  • Anti allergy 
  • Anti inflammatory 
  • Antimicrobial –bacterial, viral and fungal 
  • Asthma 
  • Constipation 
  • Diabetes 
  • Gastrointestinal tonic 
  • Immune system enhancement 
  • Peptic ulcers 
Supplements:
Aloe vera is sold in different forms. Aloe vera gel is the undiluted gel obtained from stripping away the outer layer. Aloe vera concentrate is the gel from which the water element has been removed Aloe vera juice is an ingestible product containing about 50% gel. Aloe vera latex is the bitter yellow liquid derived from the outer rind of the leaf. 

Recommended Dose:
  • Daily dosage at least 800 mg 
  • For skin conditions apply the gel from a fresh broken leaf directly on the affected area 
  • For intestinal conditions 6 oz aloe vera juice three times a day 

Side effects and precautions:
Aloe Vera is generally safe and allergies to it are rare.

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