You may be looking for relief from a skin condition. Or maybe you’re interested in the many benefits of Aloe Vera and how you might cultivate the plant in your home. In either case you’re in the right place.
Sometimes called “Lily of the Desert” and “Medicine Plant,” Aloe carries a worldwide reputation of being a plant that heals. It’s one of the oldest known therapeutic herbs. Greek history from 2,000 years ago relates that Aloe was a true and effective treatment for everything from constipation to burns to kidney ailments. And it’s believed that the Egyptians used the Aloe plant in their secret process of embalming. Not exactly a household use, but there’s much more to the wonderful Aloe plant.
While all types of Aloe plants exhibit more or less the same properties, the “Aloe Vera” variety is the easiest to use medicinally, because it’s larger and has softer leaves. The inner chamber contains a mucusy pulp. This pulp, usually called gel, is believed to contain the wound-healing agents. It’s rich in over 200 beneficial nutrients. It contains 18 amino acids; vitamins B1, B2, B6, and C; niacinamine, choline and much more.
Here’s how it works. Externally, Aloe Vera’s enzymes soften skin by removing dead cells and increasing moisture. It’s a natural moisturizer and helps fight the effects of aging. It’s been called “the healing juice” for sunburns, wounds, rashes, scrapes, wrinkles, insect bites and more. Because of its remarkable ability to heal skin, Aloe Vera juice has been used for decades to treat third degree and radiation burns. As it promotes healing, it can also stop pain and reduce the chance of infection and scarring.
Internally, Aloe Vera has benefits too, but be careful the form you take. The raw leaves can cause uncontrollable bowel spasms. It’s typically taken in powdered form, and it absorbs bowel toxins and promotes the growth of friendly colon bacteria. Research and practice have shown it to be effective in treating ulcers and arthritis. It can also be used as a laxative. It is believed to boost the immune system by balancing the pH of the blood. And it also aids digestion and the absorption of nutrients.
Would you like to grow your own Aloe Vera plants? While it’s a perennial that grows wild in East and South Africa, it’s easy to grow anywhere there’s a houseplant. Plant it in a pot, and put it outside all summer long, and then bring it indoors in the fall before the first frost. It’s a decorative plant, and it’s nice to have around for minor emergencies. It multiplies readily by growing new plants from it’s roots, so share one with a friend.
I’m Randy Lee. If you have questions about this or any other natural h
ealth topic, give me a call at the store, email me, or stop by.
Enjoy good health and God’s richest blessings!
