How to Benefit From the Aloe Vera Plant
November 4, 2009
Aloe Vera is extracted from the Aloe Vera plant which has been cultivated and grown across the world for centuries due to its medicinal properties. The Aloe Plant is a thick leaved plant which is stem less or semi stem less. Contrary to popular belief that it is a part off the cactus family this plant comes from the plant family which includes onions and lilies.
The leaves of the Aloe Vera plant are thick and pulpy. They are green in color and sometimes also appear grayish green in color. They are spotted and have white thorn like teeth along the edges of the leaves. Due to its medicinal properties the sap which can be obtained by simply breaking the leaf or cutting it can be applied topically and is very effective in soothing irritated skin.
It is also very effective in treating sunburns and other minor burns. It is used commonly as a skin moisturizer and cleanser as well. The Aloe Vera plant is also used in the treatment of other skin diseases such as psoriasis and shingles as it helps bring temporary relief till proper medical attention can be sought.
Reference to the health benefits of the Aloe Vera plant have been found in many ancient civilizations. Indians, Greeks, Chinese and even Romans used to use this plant commonly in their medical practices due to its healing properties. Record of the uses of the Aloe Vera extract was found in a Sumerian tablet which dates back to 2100 B.C. where the queens of ancient Egypt used to use it in the beauty treatments.
The benefits of the Aloe Vera Plant have been discovered by modern medicine and the plant extract is now being utilized in many beauty as well as medicinal products. It is being used in lotions, gels and creams which are used to help moisturize and nourish skin. Aloe Vera also contains anti inflammatory and antiseptic properties and is therefore also used in ointments and medicinal creams used to treat skin infections and diseases.
Creams and lotions are also available that are used to sterilize wounds and help treat minor burns which contain Aloe Vera. Due to its healing properties antibacterial creams, shampoos, soaps, moisturizing lotions, sunburn cream and many other popular products include Aloe Vera as an active ingredient in their composition.
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