Aloe Vera: The Versatile Miracle Plant for Skin Care and Wellness

Aloe vera is a widely recognized ingredient found in countless products. Whether you're browsing a grocery store or a beauty shop, you’ll likely spot aloe in various forms: juices, beverages, supplements, ointments, facial cleansers, and sunscreens.

Often dubbed the "miracle" plant, aloe vera serves numerous purposes. In this guide, we will cover the essentials of aloe, highlighting its many uses and benefits depending on its form and application.

We worked closely with experts and the Global Product Science & Safety team to bring you the latest findings and practical insights on aloe for everyday use.

What Is Aloe and Why Is It So Popular?

Aloe belongs to a genus of plants containing over 550 species of succulents. In everyday usage, the term "aloe" commonly refers to Aloe vera, a specific tropical succulent originating from the Arabian Peninsula thousands of years ago.

Known as the “true” aloe, Aloe vera is part of the Asphodelaceae Juss family. For centuries, people have cultivated this plant for its beauty and numerous benefits. Aloe is now grown worldwide and can be found in gardens, the wild, or even as a potted plant on windowsills.

As a tropical succulent, aloe thrives in hot, dry conditions, storing large amounts of fluid as a gel within the central part of its leaves. The gel is extracted by crushing, grinding, or pressing the leaves, which is then filtered and processed into various forms used in food and cosmetics.

How Is Aloe Vera Gel Used?

Aloe vera gel has a range of uses depending on how it's processed.

• Cosmetic Use: Many companies incorporate aloe vera gel into skincare and cosmetic products for external application.

• Consumable Forms: Aloe vera gel is also used in beverages, juices, dietary supplements, and powders. It’s especially popular for digestive support and bowel health.

As a natural product, the composition of aloe vera gel can vary depending on the growing conditions and manufacturing processes.

Why Do Companies Use Aloe in Skin Care?

Aloe vera is well-known for its soothing and hydrating properties. When applied to the skin, it can help alleviate minor burns and skin irritation by moisturizing and lubricating the skin.

Today, aloe is a staple ingredient in many creams, lotions, cleansers, soaps, shampoos, and other personal care products.

Why Do Companies Use Aloe in Food and Supplements?

After processing the gel to remove impurities, aloe vera is often marketed as a digestive tonic. It supports nutrient absorption and overall digestive health, and has been used traditionally to soothe an upset stomach or aid digestion.

Though primarily composed of water, aloe vera also contains minerals and botanical compounds. It’s a source of specialized sugars known as polysaccharides, which are believed to help support the immune system. Aloe vera also contains phytonutrients, which are rich in antioxidants.

A Brief History of Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has a rich history in traditional medicine. Evidence of its use dates back over 4,000 years:

• The Ancient Egyptians referred to aloe as the “plant of immortality” and used it in funerals for pharaohs and in the baths of queens.

• Cleopatra, known for her beauty, swore by aloe vera gel as part of her skincare routine.

• The healing properties of aloe were so well-regarded that Aristotle convinced Alexander the Great to acquire aloe for use in treating his soldiers.

• In Asia, aloe vera has been used not only as a topical treatment but also in beverages and juices.

6 Benefits of Aloe Vera Gel for Skin Care

Aloe vera gel is celebrated for its skin-hydrating and cooling effects, leaving skin soft and smooth.

Here are some benefits of aloe gel for skincare:

1. Reduces Skin Flare-Ups:
   Aloe vera's gentle properties, combined with its natural antimicrobial benefits, make it effective in reducing and preventing mild to moderate flare-ups, especially when used alongside acne treatments.

2. Moisturizes the Skin:
   Because aloe is water-rich, it’s an excellent choice for skin care products aimed at dry, itchy skin. It helps keep the skin hydrated and smooth.

3. Cools and Hydrates:
   For minor burns, such as sunburns or burns from cooking, aloe vera gel provides instant relief by cooling and hydrating the skin. Storing the gel in the refrigerator enhances this cooling effect.

4. DIY Face Masks:
   Aloe’s light texture makes it perfect for homemade face masks that not only hydrate but also soothe skin flare-ups. It’s packed with antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals that promote skin health.

5. Facial Relaxation:
   Aloe gel is a great ingredient for facials, helping restore dry skin and providing a refreshed appearance with a soft, glowing complexion.

5 Health Benefits of Consumable Aloe Vera

When processed into a safe-to-consume form, aloe vera is available in juices, concentrates, powdered extracts, or capsules.

Here are some health benefits of consuming aloe:

1. Supports Digestive Health:
   Aloe vera juice is known for soothing the stomach and aiding digestion, making it a popular tonic for digestive issues.

2. Enhances Nutrient Absorption:
   Aloe helps improve nutrient absorption in the digestive tract. An independent study showed that aloe gel could slow the absorption of vitamin C, maintaining higher plasma levels for longer periods, which supports nutrient uptake.

3. Promotes Intestinal Health and Immunity:
   Certain compounds in aloe, like acemannan, act as prebiotics, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This not only enhances digestion but also supports immune function.

4. Boosts Antioxidant Defense:
   Aloe vera’s antioxidants help neutralize oxidative stress, which can damage body cells and tissues. Studies show that regular consumption of aloe vera can improve the body’s antioxidant defense system.

5. Hydration with Fewer Calories:
   Aloe vera juice is a hydrating beverage that can serve as a low-calorie alternative to sugary drinks, supporting hydration needs without the added sugars found in sodas and other high-calorie beverages.

Why You Shouldn’t Eat Raw Aloe

Raw aloe vera should not be consumed. The term "aloe" comes from the Greek word for "bitter." Just under the skin of the aloe plant, a yellowish latex substance contains compounds called aloins, which are bitter and act as a laxative. Consuming this raw form can cause discomfort.

To make aloe safe for consumption, a purification process called decolorization is used, where aloe juice is filtered through activated charcoal to remove the bitter, laxative compounds. This ensures that the aloe juice you consume is safe and beneficial.

All the Ways You Can Use Aloe: A Quick DIY Guide

Aloe is available in many forms, and it’s easy to incorporate it into your skin care routine or diet.

How to Use Aloe in Your Skin Care Routine

When choosing aloe-based cosmetics, look for dermatologist-tested, sulfate-free products. A fragrance-free aloe gel is ideal for skin care. You can also ask for samples to test the product before buying to ensure it provides the desired benefits, such as smoother, more hydrated skin.

DIY Aloe Mask for Skin Flare-Ups

This soothing mask helps prevent bacterial buildup. It’s easy to make with just three ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons plain yogurt

• 1 tablespoon aloe gel

• 1 tablespoon honey

Mix the ingredients, apply to your face, and leave it on for 15–20 minutes. Wash off with warm water and a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser.

How to Use Aloe Vera Juice

If you prefer drinking aloe, you can purchase it in juices, concentrates, or capsules.

• Always check the nutrition label for added sugars and high-calorie ingredients.

• Mix aloe juice with sparkling water for a refreshing soda alternative.

• Add it to hot or cold tea, or blend it into smoothies and protein shakes for a digestive boost.

Aloe vera can help you stay hydrated and support your digestive health. Just be sure to choose high-quality aloe products for the best results.