Aloe vera is a plant species that is widely known to have benefits for the human body. These benefits and uses include purposes for the skin, digestive system, and hair. It mainly grows in the wild but can be cultivated at home for various purposes like medicine.
Bioactive compounds from aloe vera are essential in treating various diseases and nourishing the skin from inflammation and burns. Due to this reason, many ointments are manufactured with aloe vera, from facial creams to ointments.
Read on to discover more about aloe vera and some of its benefits.
History of aloe vera
The earliest discovery of aloe vera dates way back to 2,200 BC. However, the plant species was first documented and described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. He named the species as Aloe perfoliata var. This prompted the second discovery and renaming of the same plant to Aloe Vera by Nicolaas Laurens Burman in 1768.
The plant has over 500 species distributed all over the world. It is an evergreen plant, despite growing in most dry areas that originates from the Arabian Peninsula. Despite its nature, aloe vera can be grown indoors and used as decorations. Indoor species do not overgrow in size and can be planted in a pot.
Ever since its discovery, aloe vera has been used for several purposes including the production of ointments, skincare, cosmetics, and production of medical drugs and medicine. The name vera is derived from Latin meaning ‘true’.
Benefits of Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has numerous benefits and may be used as a skin remedy, internal body remedy, and production of medicinal foods and drinks. The following are the essential benefits of aloe vera for your skin:
Soothes sunburns
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory qualities that help the skin against sunburns. The natural moisturizing effect helps to cool off the skin and return to its original tone. Applying aloe vera ointments on your skin and face may enable retain moisture, especially during a hot outdoor day. The antioxidants may protect the skin against UV damage, as well.
Moisturizes the skin
Aloe vera has the capability of moisturizing the skin even during a hot day. Unlike other moisturizers, aloe vera may form a protective layer to protect your skin and unclog clogged pores. It is easily absorbed by the skin for this purpose.
Fade stretch marks and dark spots
Hyperpigmentation may occur for various reasons like scars and acne. However, the Aloesin compound found in Aloe vera may easily counter this effect. The anti-inflammatory properties aid in retaining better skin against stretch marks.
Reduces acne
The antimicrobial effects of aloe vera help clear clogged pores and nourish the skin. This effect may easily eradicate pimples that lead to acne. The polysaccharides present in aloe vera also help in the development of new and better skin after cleansing is done.
Reduces skin aging
Skin aging may be a nightmare for many people but with aloe vera ointments, you may help rejuvenate your skin. The plenty of Vitamin C and E ensure your skin reflects a youthful effect. The antimicrobial effect also eradicates aging lines and sagging of the skin.
Fastens healing of wounds
Aloe vera is highly beneficial as it reduces the time it takes to heal wounds, especially burns. This has been proven several times for first- and second-degree burns. It affects skin cell production that enables the skin to form cover layers.
Generally, Aloe vera has numerous benefits, not only limited to the skin but also heart health, prevention of hair loss and dandruff, and production of nutritious and medicinal foods and drinks. Having an aloe vera plant around may be beneficial since you may use the plant naturally, unlike using an ointment.
