Aloe Vera Uses and Health Benefits

Aloe vera, often referred to as the "plant of immortality," has been appreciated and utilized across various cultures for its health and medicinal properties, dating back to ancient Egypt, Greece, and India. Today, it remains a staple in both traditional and modern remedies, offering numerous health benefits, particularly in skin care, digestion, and immune function.

Composition and Active Compounds

Aloe vera’s therapeutic properties come from its rich chemical composition. The plant's leaves contain three distinct layers, each contributing to its health effects:

The inner gel: It is composed primarily of water (99%) with glucomannans, amino acids, lipids, sterols, and vitamins.
Latex (middle layer): A yellow sap rich in anthraquinones and glycosides, known for their laxative effects.
The rind (outer layer): Provides protection and houses vascular bundles that transport water and nutrients within the plant.

Aloe vera contains more than 75 active constituents, including vitamins A, C, and E, enzymes, minerals (such as calcium, magnesium, and zinc), sugars (polysaccharides like acemannan), anthraquinones, fatty acids, amino acids, and hormones. These components give aloe its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and healing properties.

Historical and Traditional Uses

Historically, aloe vera has been used for its healing abilities. Cleopatra and Nefertiti, for instance, applied it for skincare. During military conquests, both Alexander the Great and Christopher Columbus utilized aloe to treat soldiers' wounds. In recent history, aloe became recognized for treating radiation dermatitis in the 1930s.

Health Benefits

Skin Healing and Moisturizing: Aloe vera is renowned for treating burns, wounds, and skin irritations. When applied topically, the plant's gel stimulates fibroblast activity, promoting collagen synthesis, increasing wound contraction, and reducing scarring. The gel also has moisturizing properties, helping to hydrate dry skin, reduce wrinkles, and tighten pores. It is commonly used to treat psoriasis, frostbite, and acne.
Anti-inflammatory and Immune Support: Aloe's anti-inflammatory effects are attributed to compounds like C-glucosyl chromone and anthraquinones. It inhibits the cyclooxygenase pathway, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory compounds like prostaglandin E2. Aloe also boosts immune function, helping to stimulate macrophages and increasing the body’s ability to fight infections and cancerous cells.
Digestive Health: Aloe vera latex, derived from the plant's middle layer, contains anthraquinones, which act as potent natural laxatives. This component is commonly used to treat constipation by increasing intestinal water content and peristalsis. Aloe vera juice is also helpful in managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), as it neutralizes stomach acid and soothes the digestive tract.
Antiviral and Antibacterial Properties:h Aloe vera's anthraquinones and polyphenols exhibit antiviral and antibacterial effects. The plant is effective against various viruses, such as herpes simplex and influenza. Its antiseptic properties help to prevent infection in cuts and wounds, and it is increasingly being used as a natural alternative in oral care products to reduce plaque and gum inflammation.
Liver and Detoxification Support: Regular consumption of aloe vera juice aids liver function, particularly detoxification. The plant's hydrating properties and rich nutrient profile help cleanse the liver, ensuring optimal organ output. Aloe vera also balances gut bacteria and promotes healthy digestion, further supporting the body's detoxification process.
Blood Sugar Regulation: Aloe vera has shown potential in helping to manage type 2 diabetes. Research suggests that consuming aloe juice regularly can lower blood sugar levels, making it a natural remedy for diabetes. However, it is essential for individuals taking glucose-lowering medications to consult with healthcare providers before incorporating aloe into their diet, as it may further lower glucose levels.
Cancer Prevention and Antitumor Activity: Aloe's polysaccharides and anthraquinones have demonstrated cancer-preventive properties. These compounds inhibit the formation of benzopyrene-DNA adducts, which are associated with cancer initiation. Aloe also stimulates the immune system, helping to eliminate cancer cells by producing tumor necrosis factors.

Commercial and Cosmetic Uses

Aloe vera is widely used in the beauty and cosmetic industry. Its moisturizing, anti-wrinkle, and soothing properties make it a key ingredient in lotions, creams, shampoos, and sunscreens. Aloe vera-based products are also effective in treating minor burns, sunburn, and skin inflammation. The plant’s versatility extends beyond skin care, as its gel is often used in oral care products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash, due to its ability to reduce plaque and treat gingivitis.

References

https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/aloe-vera
Surjushe, A., Vasani, R., & Saple, D. (2008). Aloe vera: a short review. Indian journal of dermatology, 53(4), 163-166. DOI: 10.4103/0019-5154.44785
Chithra, P., Sajithlal, G. B., & Chandrakasan, G. (1998). Influence of Aloe vera on collagen characteristics in healing dermal wounds in rats. Molecular and cellular biochemistry, 181, 71-76.
Hutter, J. A., Salman, M., Stavinoha, W. B., Satsangi, N., Williams, R. F., Streeper, R. T., & Weintraub, S. T. (1996). Antiinflammatory C-glucosyl chromone from Aloe barbadensis. Journal of natural products, 59(5), 541-543.
Sydiskis, R. J., Owen, D. G., Lohr, J. L., Rosler, K. H., & Blomster, R. N. (1991). Inactivation of enveloped viruses by anthraquinones extracted from plants. Antimicrobial agents and chemotherapy, 35(12), 2463-2466. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1128/aac.35.12.2463
West, D. P., & Zhu, Y. F. (2003). Evaluation of aloe vera gel gloves in the treatment of dry skin associated with occupational exposure. American Journal of infection control, 31(1), 40-42. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1067/mic.2003.12
Kim, H. S., & Lee, B. M. (1997). Inhibition of benzo [a] pyrene-DNA adduct formation by Aloe barbadensis Miller. Carcinogenesis, 18(4), 771-776. https://doi.org/10.1093/carcin/18.4.771