Since ancient Egypt aloe's incredible qualities have been the talk of the town. Originally discovered in Africa, this is a green, thick, pulpy, leafy plant with spikes running along the edges of the leaf. Scientifically called Aloe barbadensis, aloe vera is a now used for medicinal purposes in Europe, America and Asia. In the practice of medicine, gel, latex, extract, juice and capsules of aloe plant are used.
Some of the many qualities of aloe vera are its anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic and anti-itch properties. Another important feature of aloe is that it is a strong laxative. However, its use as a laxative has been hindered by the fact that it produces very severe abdominal cramps. As a soothing agent it is used on burnt or broken skin. It is used at the affected site as it also has pain relieving properties. Aloe has been found to reduce inflammation when tested with animals. Likewise, the study of use of aloe in treating ulcerative colitis when the medicine is taken internally has been found to be better than a placebo. Its use in the treatment of digestion related ailments has been effective due to its anti-inflammatory attribute.
Aloe extract contains aloemannan which helps in the growth of kidney cells and also in controlling the production of kidney stone. Aloe juice is an effective antidote for ulcers, heart burns etc. However, its effect is applicable only to peptic ulcers and not to stress related ulcers. In asthma patients who do not use corticosteroids, oral use of aloe has been found to provide optimum results. Using aloe vera while you are pregnant needs to be discussed with your physician. Aloe-emodin is a very good laxative. It also kills shingles-causing herpes virus. Aloe vera when used with base oils (almond and apricot) is a popular treatment in aroma therapy.
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Aloe Vera products have great medicinal value and can be used to cure skin diseases, Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn's Disease etc. You can find out more about it at http://www.aloeelite.com.
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