Aloe vera has many benefits for humans: it can reduce blood pressure, act as an antioxidant, treat burns and ulcers, fight acne, moisturize skin, promote hair growth, and more. Let’s explore the various ways aloe vera can benefit your skin and overall health!

What is Aloe Vera?

Aloe vera is a medicinal plant used for treating a variety of health conditions. It has long been used in folk medicine to treat issues such as constipation, skin beauty, burns, and more. Aloe vera contains various nutrients such as:

• Vitamin A, C, E

• Enzymes

• Minerals

• Sugars, lignin, saponins, salicylic acid, and amino acids.

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1. How to Use Aloe Vera

• Topical Use: Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to the skin, or create DIY beauty products like aloe vera face masks.

• In Food and Drinks: Aloe vera can be added to smoothies, food, or drinks.

• Aloe Vera Products: Aloe vera is available in capsules, extracts, powders, and juices. When using these, follow the manufacturer’s dosage instructions, especially for raw aloe latex and whole leaf extract supplements to ensure safety.

Dosage: There’s no standard dosage for aloe vera, so it’s best to adjust based on your needs. Aloe vera products can vary in concentration, from as low as 0.5% to more than 99%. There’s no evidence that lower concentrations are less effective than higher concentrations. Therefore, start with the lowest dosage and increase as needed.

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2. Reduces Blood Pressure

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), high blood pressure is a "silent killer." While some people don’t show symptoms, high blood pressure can slowly damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of stroke, heart attacks, and other complications. Aloe vera powder helps reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in patients with hypertension. Drinking aloe vera juice can improve high blood pressure and prevent dangerous complications.

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3. Stabilizes Blood Sugar Levels

Along with weight loss, a healthy diet, and physical activity, aloe vera can help manage diabetes and improve blood sugar levels. Studies show that aloe vera can enhance insulin sensitivity, reducing blood sugar levels. Drinking aloe vera juice, such as two tablespoons daily, may assist in diabetes management, but it should be used as a supplement under medical supervision.

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4. Improves Digestive Health

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common digestive disorder that causes heartburn. Drinking 30–90ml of aloe vera juice before meals can help reduce GERD symptoms and other digestive issues. Aloe vera juice has also been shown to be beneficial for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), alleviating pain and other symptoms.

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5. Improves Oral Health

Aloe vera is known for its plaque-fighting and anti-inflammatory properties. Aloe vera juice can be a safe and effective alternative to traditional mouthwash. The vitamin C in aloe vera can prevent plaque buildup and improve gum health by reducing bleeding and swelling. Aloe vera has been recognized as a natural remedy for bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease.

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6. Antioxidant and Antibacterial Properties

Aloe vera contains polyphenol antioxidants, which, along with other compounds, help inhibit the growth of bacteria that can cause infections. Aloe vera is known for its antibacterial, antiviral, and antiseptic properties, which is why it’s effective for treating wounds and various skin conditions.

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7. Treats Burns and Ulcers

If you get sunburned or experience a kitchen accident, cut aloe vera leaves into slices and rub the gel directly onto the burned area to relieve pain and reduce itching. Aloe vera is a top choice for treating sunburn and other skin irritations due to its anti-inflammatory effects and moisture-boosting properties.

Aloe vera has been used in skincare products like moisturizers and face masks due to its mucopolysaccharides, which help hydrate the skin, boost collagen production, and prevent wrinkles, making the skin look firmer and younger.

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8. Moisturizes and Clears Acne

Aloe vera is great for acne-prone skin due to its high content of vitamins and enzymes. Aloe vera’s combination of vitamins and carbohydrates works to hydrate the skin and clear acne.

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9. Soothes Sunburn Inflammation

Aloe vera contains glucomannan, a compound with regenerative properties that helps heal sunburns, reduce healing time, and prevent infection and skin redness. Applying aloe vera gel to sunburned skin helps cool the skin, reduce inflammation, and alleviate discomfort.

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10. Promotes Hair Growth and Conditions Hair

Aloe vera promotes hair growth by clearing hair follicles, improving nutrient absorption, balancing pH levels, and helping hair retain moisture. Aloe vera also reduces frizz and helps keep hair smooth, healthy, and shiny.

How to Use:

• Gently massage aloe vera gel into your scalp.

• Leave it on for about 30 minutes.

• Rinse with clean water.

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11. Precautions When Using Aloe Vera

• Pregnant and Nursing Women: Aloe vera juice can stimulate uterine contractions, leading to miscarriage or birth defects. Be cautious if you’re breastfeeding, as the baby may experience toxicity.

• Digestive Issues: Raw aloe vera can cause electrolyte imbalances or dehydration if consumed in excess, especially for individuals with digestive problems.

• Children and Elderly: Aloe vera juice can lower potassium levels, leading to muscle weakness and heart arrhythmia.

• Diabetes or Hypoglycemia: Aloe vera can increase insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels, so consult with a doctor before using aloe vera juice.

• Proper Preparation: Always ensure aloe vera is properly prepared to avoid exposure to the yellow latex, which can irritate the skin or eyes. Always test a small patch on your skin before using it on your face.

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12. Dangers of Improper Use of Aloe Vera

Aloe vera gel is generally safe for topical use and has therapeutic properties when applied to the skin. However, aloe vera latex can be dangerous. Drinking aloe vera latex may cause cramps and diarrhea and may reduce the effectiveness of other medications.

According to Mayo Clinic, consuming just 1g of aloe vera daily for several days can damage the kidneys and may even be fatal. Applying aloe vera to open wounds can cause allergic reactions, inflammation, infections, peeling, and swelling.