The aloe vera plant has many health benefits that you might have not been aware of. It is a succulent plant that is usually found in tropical climates and produces a thick and gooey liquid that has historically been used to treat sunburn. Today, it has been transformed and filtered into a juice that can be drunk or added into everyday meals such as smoothies.
Five aloe vera benefits
Here are five aloe vera benefits to help you learn more about the plant.
It helps reduce constipation
The yellow sticky residue found just under the skin of the leaf is called aloin or barbaloin, and has been studied for its laxative effects.
According to Jesse P. Houghton, MD, senior medical director of gastroenterology at SOMC Gastroenterology Associates in Portsmouth, Ohio, this is one of the most well-studied benefits of aloe vera.
Its high levels of water are what make the stool pass normally, however, it must be used with caution because too much consumption can cause health risks.
It helps relieve heartburn
If you are someone that is bothered by heartburn, aloe vera is a natural way of dealing with it. According to Healthline, aloe vera juice contains compounds that help reduce the acid in the stomach. It also helps combat gastric ulcers by stopping them from getting bigger.
It lowers blood sugar levels
Reduced sugar levels are important for your general body health, and aloe vera has shown the benefits of glycemic control. A review of eight studies showed that it could be helpful for people with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.
However, this research is still ongoing, and scientists do not recommend using aloe vera solely for this purpose.
It helps with better liver function
The liver functions well when the body is well-nourished and hydrated. Therefore, Healthline says aloe vera juice and its hydrating nutrients is a good way to keep your liver healthy.
It helps get rid of acne naturally
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties, which are a natural advantage to acne-prone skin. Jamie Bacharach, a licensed naturopath and the head of practice at Acupuncture Jerusalem, says whether it is applied on pimples or general areas of redness and irritation, it has been found to smooth and diminish acne and its scars.
Bacharach also warns to not apply aloe vera to open acne blemishes.