What is aloe Vera? Benefits of Aloe Vera for Face and Health.


Updated: 07 Oct 2024

105


What is aloe vera?

Aloe vera is a succulent plant that grows in hot and dry climates such as Arizona, New Mexico, and California. Did you know this plant contains more than 75 active constituents, including vitamins, enzymes, sugars, amino acids, salicylic acids, and so on?

So as per these properties, aloe vera has been used for hundreds of years, especially in cosmetics, health, and in foods to improve their flavor.

Aloe vera gel, which is basically extracted from the aloe plant’s leaf, is widely used for skin care purposes, including for burns, brightness, and to reduce dark spots, blemishes, acne scars, and even fine lines. 

Aloe Vera Plants

Aloe juice is considered a natural remedy to treat diabetes, heartburn, and inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS) also. Scientists conducted a lot of research on aloe vera to determine their benefits and side effects. Here Some of the most common benefits and risks of aloe vera are explained below.

Benefits of aloe vera.

The aloe plant offers a lot of benefits in both health and skin care. Here is the list of  benefits of aloe vera for skin and health.

  • Reduces Constipation 
  • Effective for Burns 
  • Helps to overcome diabetes
  • Reduces IBS symptoms
  • Best for acne, blemishes, and dark spots
  • Resolve heartburn issues
  • Best for dry skin
  • Soothe sunburned skin
  • Anti-aging
  • Brighten and refine skin tone
  • Ideal for sunblock

Now let’s understand each point one by one.

 

Benefits Of Aloe Vera For Health

Aloe vera Health Benefits

Here we will discuss all the benefits of aloe vera for health, as you can use it wisely and get benefits.

Aloe vera for constipation.

Aloe vera juice and aloe latex are considered effective treatments for constipation. The aloe plant contains an active ingredient known as aloin or barbaloin that acts as a strong laxative.

According to scientific research, this barbaloin material increases the level of water in our intestines, which allows the waste material to pass through the intestine easily.

Aloe latex and juice are mostly used in over-the-counter drugs. But still, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not claimed this plant is safe for health; further studies are needed. 

Aloe vera for acne.

Acne is formed when the oil on your skin, dead caells, and some bacteria clog up the hair follicles. Aloe vera features antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agents that help us to keep our face acne-free. 

In a 2013 study of aloe vera and tretinoin, researchers experienced that the combination of tretinoin and aloe vera is a great way to reduce your skin acne. The study also examines, aloe vera was effective in reducing mild inflammation and acne lesions in 8 weeks only.

Aloe vera for diabetes.

According to the 2016 study of aloe vera for prediabetes and type-2 diabetes, researchers found aloe plants may help in controlling type-2 diabetes. 

Researchers further said aloe plants contain some active substances that help us to repair damaged cells in the pancreas, which make insulin.

While some studies have not found any effect on diabetes. These studies were conducted on different types of aloe vera. Now experts say further study is needed to confirm whether aloe controls high sugar levels.

Aloe Vera for heartburn.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a painful situation in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus and causes heartburn.

According to scientific studies, aloe vera has 75 active ingredients with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce heartburn and inflammation of the esophagus. 

An early study determined that aloe vera syrup is effective for heartburn the same as other reflux medications like ranitidine (Zantac) and omeprazole (Prilosec), but aloe syrup has a few side effects.

Aloe vera for burns.

The aloe plant is also beneficial in treating minor burns and sunburns as per its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. 

Scientific researchers say that when you apply aloe vera to your minor burns and sunburns, it can reduce skin redness, itching, and pain and also helps the skin to heal faster. 

It’s antibacterial properties also protect small burns from bacterial and other microorganism wars. 

Aloe Vera gel can soothe and moisturize your sunburned skin when you apply. The regular use of aloe vera gel can help you to keep your skin safe from future sunburn issues. 

Aloe vera for IBS symptoms

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is the disorder of the large intestine and causes diarrhea and belly pain. 

Scientific research shows IBS is the disruption in the balance of good and harmful bacteria in the gut. Aloe vera has the ability to improve this imbalance and reduce inflammation in the intestines.

There are different scientific studies available on aloe vera for IBS. A 2013 review says aloe vera is effective for abdominal pain and flatulence caused by IBS. 

And a 2018 trial shows aloe vera is good for treating IBS for a short time. However, the studies on aloe vera for IBS are fewer; experts say more study is needed to conclude the results.

Benifits of Aloe Vera Gel for face.

Aloe vera plants are great for using on your face. Their gel, which is basically extracted from their leaves, is rich with vitamins, including A, C, E, and B12. 

Vitamins A, C, and E help us to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. And the vitamin B12 improves our skin tone and reduces acne and inflammation, providing us with healthy and glowing skin. 

Here are some main benefits of using aloe vera gel on your face.

Fresh Aloe Vera Gel

Best for dry skin.

Aloe vera is one of the best treatments for dry skin issues. Their natural and processed aloe gel is always packed and rich with vitamins and minerals that work together and provide fully hydrated, soft, and supple skin. 

Additionally, aloe vera is also a great treatment for those people who are suffering from rosacea or eczema.

Reduces dark spots, blemishes, and acne scars.

Aloe Vera gel is a natural and great remedy to make your skin smoother and brighter. It helps us to reduce dark spots, blemishes, and acne scars.

Aloe gel also improves the healing process of our body, which also plays a crucial role in reducing acne scars.

Additionally, it can also reduce under-eye puffiness and dark circles, making your eyes more bright and catchy in look.

Soothe sunburns and minor burns.

As we all go outside, for fun days, playing games, and for other essential works where sun is exposed to us and results in painful sunburn. But don’t worry, Aloe Vera is here to save you. 

Aloe vera is naturally rich in cooling and soothing properties. So it’s great to provide us relief from pain and redness caused by sunburns and minor burns. 

Aloe Vera Gel On Face

Anti-aging.

Want to look like a youth? great!  Aloe Vera is your secret weapon against aging. Aloe vera is not only rich with vitamins and minerals, but it also features antioxidants and collagen protein-boosting powers. 

These antioxidants and collagen proteins help us a lot in fighting with microorganisms and to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. 

Brighten and refine skin tone.

Aloe Vera gel used for the face also brightens your face and improves complexion. They have the ability to reduce dark spots and even hyperpigmentation. 

The regular use of aloe gel can make your skin more bright and give you a radiant and healthy skin glow.

A Women Applying Aloe Vera Gel To Brighten And Moisturize Her Face

Gentle Exfoliation.

Aloe vera is not only great for skin glowing and hydration, but it also works as a natural gentle exfoliator.

Basically, aloe vera plants have natural enzymes that help us to remove dead skin cells and give us fresh and healthy skin beneath.

Ideal for Sunblock.

Nature’s got you covered—protect your skin from sunburns, naturally. Aloe Vera gel is a proven method to protect your skin from sun UV rays. 

But make sure to don’t use expired aloe vera gel. Know here how an expired aloe vera gel can go bad.

How do you apply aloe vera to your face?

You can easily apply aloe vera gel to your face by following our four steps below.

  • First of all, wash your face properly with a mild face wash.
  • Now apply aloe Vera gel on your face by using soft circular motions for almost 10 minutes. Make sure to don’t apply too much pressure on your face as it can harm your skin. 
  • After that, leave aloe gel on your face for around 10-15 minutes.
  • Now wash your face with cold water.

Aloe vera risks.

Aloe vera is safe to use. But still, there are limits and conditions. The report of the National Institute of Health says, Don’t use aloe vera if you are allergic to the onions, garlic, or tulips. They experienced that the people who are allergic to the onion are also allergic to the aloe vera and face some health issues like skin irritation, hives, and cramping.

Consuming high doses of aloe latex is also dangerous and can cause belly pain, diarrhea, electrolyte imbalance, and even kidney damage. Many people, when they take aloe by mouth for a long time or consume high doses, face health issues including sun sensitivity, diarrhea, allergic reactions, vomiting, nausea, and low blood potassium levels.

Conditions when you should avoid using aloe vera.

  • Don’t use aloe vera if you are allergic to onions, garlic, or tulips. It can cause skin irritation, hives, and cramping.
  • Avoid using aloe vera if you have diabetes and are already taking medicines to lower it. Some studies show that aloe vera features some substances that repair the cells in the pancreas, which make insulin. So they can lower your blood sugar too much. This can cause coma or even death. 
  • Avoid the overconsumption or regular use of aloe latex; it can damage your kidney and can cause belly pain, diarrhea, and an imbalance of electrolytes. Some studies show the overuse of aloe latex can even lead to cancer-like issues.
  • If you are pregnant, avoid using aloe as it can enhance the risk of early labor or miscarriage. And if you are breastfeeding your child, the use of aloe latex can cause diarrhea or other health issues for your baby. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, aloe vera is a natural great product to make your skin healthy and happy. They can solve many skin issues, including sunburns, acne, fine lines, dark spots, and even blemishes. 

But make sure to use it carefully. There are some cases and limits to using aloe vera. For example, if you are sensitive or allergic to onions and garlic, don’t use aloe vera on your skin; it can harm you. 

Or if you are pregnant or you have diabetes and are already taking medicines to lower it, then also use of aloe vera is not recommended. It can lower your sugar level too much.

What is the scientific name of aloe vera?

The scientific or botanical name of Aloe vera is Aloe barbadensis Miller.

Can we rub aloe vera on our faces daily?

Yes, you can rub a small amount of aloe vera on your face daily. It can help you to reduce various skin issues like acne, blemishes, dark spots, and sunburns.

Is fresh-cut aloe vera good for your face?

Yes, fresh-cut aloe vera is good for your face. It can moisturize your skin and can reduce some skinproblems like acne, blemishes, fine lines, hyperpigmentations, and even sunburns.

Which type of aloe vera is good for skin?

There are more than 400 species of aloe vera, but the most suitable aloe vera plant for skin is aloe barbadensis Miller.

Can I leave aloe vera on my face overnight?

Yes, you can leave aloe vera on your face overnight. Aloe is always lightweight, and your skin can easily absorb it. However, if you have sensitive skin or if you are allergic to onions, garlic, and tulips, don’t use it, as it can cause skin irritations and other health issues.

What is aloe vera good for?

Aloe vera is good for many skin issues and health issues. Aloe vera reduces dark spots, blemishes acne, and also moisturizes your skin. When it comes to the health benefits of aloe vera, it’s effective for diabetes, heartburn, IBS, acne, constipation, and so on.


Written By: Sajjad Hashmani

Written By: Sajjad Hashmani

I am Sajjad Hashmani, a professional freelance writer with 1+ years of experience. I am deeply interested in aloe vera plants. My journey began with simple curiosity, which grew into a passion for exploring aloe vera and its benefits. On the aloespark.com website, I share my own insights, scientific research, and benefits of aloe vera for both humans and animals. Subscribe to stay in touch. Thank you!

Please Write Your Comments