9 Benefits of Aloe Vera Gel You Need to Know

Aloe vera gel has been used for centuries for its numerous beneficial properties. It has been unanimously chosen as one of the most beneficial health and beauty plant products. Whether it’s traditional herbal medicine or modern medicine, the benefits of aloe vera are for humans inside out.

But what is aloe vera gel? This gel comes from the leaves of the aloe plant. It is widely used across the globe because this plant is easily found in most climatic conditions, and hence it has become easily accessible and is affordable. The gel that comes out fresh from the plants is also edible, even though it is recommended by most health experts to not consume it directly due to the risk of poisonous species.

The nutrients present in aloe vera gel have made it beneficial for a number of health and beauty reasons. Here are 9 practical benefits of aloe vera gel that you need to know.

Soothes Sunburn

Aloe vera is widely used to soothe sunburns and heat rashes. It has a naturally cooling effect which gives a soothing effect on the sunburns and also helps in reducing discomfort and itchiness caused by the sunburn. It not only soothes and cools it down, but also has healing properties. Aloe vera gel heals the skin tissue after a sunburn by allowing it to regenerate and heal faster. With summertime coming, sunburns are one of the biggest concerns that cause major damage to the skin and can have a long-lasting impact if not treated well. But now you know, that aloe vera gel is here to save you.

Moisturizes Skin

As we all know, moisturizing is the most important step in a healthy skincare routine. It is so important to moisturize your skin every night before sleeping to maintain skin health and prevent anti-aging. Now what if we tell you that aloe vera gel is the best and most affordable moisturizer you can get for your skin? Add it to your skincare routine and see the magic. Aloe vera gel absorbs easily in the skin so it is a good moisturizer not just for the face but the whole body. It is also ideal for oily skin as it absorbs and leaves no sticky residue. The gel hydrates the skin and the nutrients present nourish the skin leaving it soft and glowing. You can add an aloe vera-based soap in your bath time routine and face wash or moisturizer in your skincare routine. It works both in summer and winter.

Heals Wounds, Cuts and Frostbites

Aloe vera gel has natural anti-inflammatory properties, which make it a great first-aid gel to use for wounds, cuts, or frostbite. The anti-inflammatory properties quickly reduce swelling, redness, and itchiness. Apart from giving a cooling effect, it also heals the wound quickly and minimizes scarring. It fastens wound healing by accelerating collagen production in the skin and fighting bacteria. It can be used as a first-aid remedy for wounds and frostbites, but remember to follow up with a doctor later.

Treats Acne

Yes, you read that right. Aloe vera gel is one of the proven remedies for acne-prone skin conditions and scarring. Many women and men face the issue of acne breakouts in the region we live in due to the climate. Aloe vera gel is your savior as its antibacterial and antioxidant properties can help reduce acne-causing bacteria and prevent breakouts. It not only prevents breakouts but also helps with redness and marks left behind due to the acne. Aloe vera gel heals the skin and kills bacteria that cause many skin infections. You can use an aloe vera gel-based anti-acne cream or face wash to combat acne-related problems. It’s the best natural remedy with the least side effects.

Combats Skin Diseases and Irritations   

As mentioned above, the antibacterial and antioxidant properties also help in reducing several kinds of skin irritations and diseases such as psoriasis and eczema. The calming effect soothes and heals dryness, dullness, irritation, inflammation, etc. Aloe vera gel kills all bacteria that cause these severe diseases. In the short and long both, aloe vera gel benefits the skin. In case of skin irritations, applying fresh aloe vera gel soothes and immediately reduces the irritation.

Promotes Anti-Aging

Aloe vera naturally does what many women pay hundreds and thousands of bucks for. It naturally promotes anti-aging and boosts collagen production in the skin. Antioxidants and minerals such as vitamins C and E help the skin combat aging naturally. Furthermore, the collagen boost helps in improving skin elasticity. Aloe vera gel also reduces fine lines and wrinkles making it the perfect beauty agent.

Improves Digestion

Apart from being a great skin and beauty agent, aloe vera gel also cures you from the inside. Its anti-inflammatory properties and natural nutrients help strengthen the digestive system and gut health. It can be consumed in juice form daily to prevent such gastrointestinal disorders. Many researchers have backed the fact that people who use aloe vera juice daily have a better digestive system and tract than those who don’t. Aloe vera naturally has laxative effects, which help in combating constipation. Drinking aloe vera juice also refreshes and hydrates the skin from the inside and hence is a great source of natural vitamins and minerals.

Promotes Healthy Hair

Aloe vera gel is great for healthy scalp and hair. It has immense benefits when applied to the scalp and hair such as reducing dandruff and promoting long, shiny hair. Since it has moisturizing properties, it moisturizes the scalp, reducing dandruff and itchiness. It nourishes the hair with its natural minerals and boosts hair growth and strength. With a healthy scalp, aloe vera gel also works on hair fall and significantly reduces hair loss. It can be used directly on the scalp when extracted from the plant. Or you can also add it to your hair oil or shampoo.  

Boosts Overall Immunity

Aloe vera is naturally detoxifying so it boosts the overall immunity of the body. It’s rich in vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that boost the immune system and refresh the body. It removes toxins from the body and any inflammation that might be present. Aloe vera gel can be consumed fresh and also in juice form. It can be taken daily but overuse is not advised.  

How to use it?

Many companies are producing aloe vera gel in creams, serums, face washes, and other forms. You can either consume it in its natural state by directly extracting it from the plant or through one of these products. It can even be consumed as a liquid such as juice form, which is for immunity and digestive health. The dosage of the creams and gel varies according to the purpose for which it is being used. Usually for minor burns or sunburn, about 0.5-1% of aloe vera gel is used. For other severe uses such as for dry skin or dandruff, up to 70% of aloe vera gel can be used.

Risks and Side Effects

Even though aloe vera has many benefits, it’s always recommended to consult a doctor before using it excessively. After a one-time use, always look for side effects or possible reactions on the skin. The chronic use of aloe vera can be harmful for some skin types. Since aloe vera plants have various types, it’s also important to know that what you are using is the purest form.

Aloe vera shouldn’t be applied on deep cuts or severe burns as that can cause further irritation or allergic reaction. Moreover, aloe vera juice in oral usage must also be taken in moderation as high dosages can cause intestinal problems. If you are taking other medications, consult your healthcare provider before using aloe vera in any form. Pregnant and breastfeeding women must also be cautious of their use, especially oral usage, as it contains laxatives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, aloe vera gel has many beneficial properties and has proven to be a safe product for skin and health. However, excessive or chronic use must be avoided.