Ancient Egyptians called aloe vera “the plant of immortality”, while the Native Americans referred to it as “the wand of heaven” for its healing properties. However, known to help treat scrapes, cuts and burns, aloe vera is even more beneficial when taken internally.
According to the Journal of Environmental Science and Health, aloe vera – which contains over 200 biologically active, naturally occurring constituents including polysaccharides, vitamins, enzymes, amino acids, and minerals – has amazing anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties that help the immune system cleanse the body of toxins and pathogens.
Minerals
Aloe vera is rich in calcium, magnesium, zinc, chromium, selenium, sodium, iron, potassium, copper, and manganese – all of which work together to boost metabolic pathways.
Enzymes
Aloe vera contains enzymes such as amylase and lipase, which help in digestion by breaking down fat and sugar molecules. Aloe vera is also a source of bradykinase, which helps reduce inflammation.
Vitamins
Aloe vera has vitamin B12, which is important to produce red blood cells. Studies show aloe vera assists with the bioavailability of B12, so the body can more easily absorb and utilize it. Aloe vera is also a source of vitamins A, C, E, folic acid, choline, B1, B2, B3 (niacin) and B6.
Amino Acids
Aloe vera contains 20 of the 22 essential amino acids – the building blocks of protein – required by the body. It is also a source of salicylic acid, which combats inflammation and bacteria.
The Magical Plant
Aloe vera, apart from being an excellent body cleanser (removing toxins from the stomach, kidneys, spleen, bladder, liver, and colon), offers relief from indigestion, upset stomach, ulcers, and gut inflammation. It helps strengthen the digestive tract and alleviate joint inflammation.
When taken the same way as a mouthwash, aloe vera juice is as effective at removing plaque as the chemical-laden mouthwash (and its active ingredient, chlorhexidine) as well as healing mouth ulcers.
How to take aloe vera?
You can either buy the leaves from grocery stores or harvest your own. You can either consume aloe vera juice straight from the plant or you can purchase it from your nearby health food stores. You can either mix it into your fruit juices and smoothies or just drink it straight up (although most people find the undiluted juice rather bitter). But it would be wise to talk to a natural health expert or do some research to find instructions on specific dosing.
