Aloe Vera is highly regarded as a miracle plant for its healing properties. It produces at least six natural antiseptics, which are able to kill mould, bacteria, funguses, and viruses. It contains phytochemicals and other nutrients that are beneficial for hair, health and skin. There are various ways to put the plant to maximal use after splitting the leaves lengthwise down the middle.
Skin: Drink a glass of aloe juice a day for healthy skin. Aloe Vera contains collagen, which prevents aging and repairs skin. This bitter gel is also great to heal burns and cuts. It moisturises the skin without giving it a greasy feel, so it’s perfect for oily skin. It can be used as an aftershave as it can treat small cuts caused by shaving. Aloe gel is a great base for a homemade scrub because it helps soften the skin and strengthens the tissue.
Try this face wash: Mix one tbsp aloe gel with one tsp almond milk, and one tsp lemon. Apply on face and leave for a few minutes before rinsing. Ideal for sensitive skin, breakouts, and rosacea.
Hair: Aloe gel cleans, nourishes and protects your hair from damage, and makes it shine. The natural enzymes soothe and moisturise the scalp and helps eliminate scalp dryness that causes dandruff. Aloe gel is a great conditioning agent that restores the hair’s shine and lustre. Regular use of aloe gel can help reduce Alopecia or male pattern baldness.
General health: Aloe Vera juice contains natural anti-oxidants that help prevent the growth of free radicals. It stimulates the metabolic rate, which in turn helps consume more energy. This helps keep weight under check.
Aloe juice can be consumed in its natural state, but can have a laxative effect.
Make aloe juice at home
Trim the ends of a mature aloe plant (leaves closer to the ground). Cut the leaves in two halves and take out the clear gel. Place this gel in a blender and put in three to five citrus fruits. Blend for at least two minutes. Once thoroughly blended, chill for at least two hours.
The writer is a cosmetologist and nutritionist based in New Delhi.
