Aloe Vera: Indications and Contraindications
July 20, 2009
Aloe vera is a plant that looks like cactus but belongs to the lily family and is of great medicinal value. Aloe vera grows in an area where there is no chilling or extreme coldness.
Various products made of aloe vera are available in the market for various purposes and are also very effective.
Indications
The gel of aloe vera is a mixture of various antibiotics, astringents, pain and scar inhibitors, cell growth stimulators and coagulating agents. That is why it is immensely beneficial.
When aloe vera is taken internally it helps in curing arthritis, constipation, heartburn, insomnia, indigestion and the list is endless. When it is used externally (applied somewhere on the body), it helps in healing cold sores, sprains, burns, acne, stretch marks and many more conditions.
Aloe vera also has various cosmetic benefits. It is used extensively in skin care products.
Aloe can be used directly for various purposes. Rubbing the natural aloe vera gel on the face helps to reduce the dark spots and also reduces the pigmentation. It also reduces the wrinkles on the face. It is also helpful during the sunburn. Apply a little gel to the area and see the magic. Stretch marks also fade on regular application of aloe vera gel.
Aloe vera is present in the form of juice in the market. One should drink this juice for various benefits. Drinking the juice protects your teeth and gums. Digestive system is also affected by drinking aloe vera juice because it has natural detoxifying qualities.
Aloe vera juice also enhances your immune system, which is necessary for protecting the body from various diseases. There are various minerals, vitamins, iron, potassium, zinc and many more that are needed by the body to keep fit.
Aloe vera gel helps to treat first-degree burns. Results have shown that it helps in cardiovascular health too.
Contraindications
Pregnant ladies should not use it as it causes uterine contractions. Children should also not be given aloe vera through oral administration. Also, if someone is on drugs that cause potassium loss, then also aloe vera juice should not be taken orally.
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