Useful and medicinal properties of aloe flower or agave. Aloe: benefits, harm, application Eating aloe raw

Aloe juice benefits and harms

Aloe juice: benefits and harm: for the eyes, for the stomach, for children and how much you can drink per day

Many have seen this plant in a pot on grandma's windowsill. Some of you were even treated with aloe juice in childhood. However, childhood ended, and questions arose. Is it possible to treat with juice? Is there any harm from this? We will answer these and some other questions.

A little about aloe

This perennial plant is difficult to confuse with any other. After all, its appearance is very specific. Thick fleshy leaves are collected in a rosette. However, aloe vera is often confused with agave, but these are different plants of the same family.

The pulp of the plant contains more than two hundred types of useful substances. This is, first of all, a group of anthraquinones, which is represented by plant biologically active substances. For example, aloin, which has laxative properties. Aloe is also rich in polysaccharides (galactose, xylose and cellulose), which stimulate intestinal function and absorb any “garbage” in the body. Aloe contains phytoncides against viruses, and a set of plant enzymes against excess fat.

We should also talk about natural vitamins and microelements. Aloe pulp contains not only:

• carotene,
• folic
• and ascorbic acid.

There is also a wide range of B vitamins, including cyanocobalamin, which is usually found in products of animal origin. The tocopherol (vitamin E) content of aloe is such that it gives it powerful antioxidant properties. Aloe vera is especially rich in microelements:

necessary for hematopoiesis, as well as:

regulating the functioning of the heart muscle. There is also chromium, which together with zinc regulates the production of sex hormones. In folk and traditional medicine, aloe vera is most often used. Moreover, both fresh leaves and juice are used. The drugs are used not only externally, but also internally.

What is aloe good for?

Initially, aloe pulp was used as a wound healing agent. This purpose comes from the anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and regenerative properties of the healing plant.

In cosmetology, various extracts from aloe are actively used, which is associated with its effect on the upper layers of the skin. Masks and creams based on it are suitable for combating skin aging and for moisturizing it. The pulp is used to heal ulcers and cracks, as well as to treat pimples and acne.

Juice and gel from it help fight high blood sugar, treat anemia, and can also normalize blood circulation.

Aloe has a mild laxative effect. To treat constipation, both the pulp of the plant and the gel from it are used.

Aloe vera juice in medicine

This is the most common form of use of a medicinal plant. At the same time, the juice completely contains all biologically active substances. You can buy ready-made sabur - condensed aloe juice - at the pharmacy. They also use the juice of their own homemade aloe vera. Methods for preparing the drug in your kitchen will be described below.

Aloe juice obtained by any method, the benefits and harms of which are known, is used in many areas. Knowing the characteristics of the plant, you need to approach the use of medicine carefully.

Most often it is used in the treatment of rhinitis, bronchitis and asthma. To ease breathing when you have a runny nose, place a couple of drops of fresh juice, undiluted in any way, into each nostril. In this case, not only does the snot stop, but the swelling of the mucous membrane also subsides. To treat cough, it is mixed with the juice of regular onions. Freshly squeezed juice of these two plants is mixed in equal proportions. You need to drink the mixture one teaspoon three times a day after meals. Using this drug on an empty stomach is strictly prohibited.

Adherents of alternative medicine recommend aloe vera medicines for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. However, if you want to use its juice for the stomach, then keep in mind that if you have an ulcer or gastritis, you cannot drink pure juice. It must be mixed with boiled water or fruit juice. The same mixture can be taken for heartburn, bloating and constipation.

Herbalists use aloe vera extract to combat anemia. If there is not enough hemoglobin in the blood and very few red blood cells (red blood cells), then daily intake of aloe juice orally will help stimulate the bone marrow to produce them. You need to drink this liquid before each meal so that the vitamins and enzymes from the juice mix in the stomach with the food bolus. The course of treatment lasts no more than two weeks. After this, you can take a control blood test. After curing anemia, it will relieve the constant fatigue and headaches that accompany it.

Aloe juice can help with various circulatory disorders. This is due to its ability to expand capillaries and strengthen their walls. Returns to normal during treatment blood pressure. Vessels treated with a course of plants become less vulnerable to cholesterol plaques.

Many people have heard about the benefits of aloe for the eyes. Indeed, it is used in ophthalmic practice as an auxiliary treatment. Aloe juice is used for inflammation of the conjunctiva, keratitis, blepharitis, as well as for myopia and lens opacity.

Squeezing this plant can help those losing weight. Here its action goes in two directions.

• Firstly, this dietary drink accelerates metabolic processes, which promotes faster fat burning.
• Secondly, its vitamins and microelements can partially replenish the substances missing during the diet.

Compresses with juice are used to treat ulcers, burns and cracks in the skin and mucous membranes.

Use of aloe in alternative treatment of childhood diseases

Aloe vera juice can also be beneficial for children. For bacterial rhinitis, use juice diluted in half. You need to bury it very carefully, a little at a time, in the morning and evening. Then the inflammation will go away much faster. Therapy is carried out for at least 5 days. This method of treatment should not be used for viral rhinitis, or for children

up to a year. You also need to remember that aloe juice can intensify local allergic reactions.

Aloe is sometimes used to boost the body's immune response. To do this, it is given orally after meals. The immunostimulating effect of the drug is based on the presence of a large amount of vitamins and phytoncides. However, before such a course of treatment, consultation with an allergist-immunologist or pediatrician is required.

Contraindications for use

Those who prefer to be treated with aloe without consulting a doctor should be very careful. After all, this medicinal drink has properties that can cause harm to health in certain conditions.

A direct contraindication to taking aloe vera extract is pregnancy. This is due to the stimulating ability of the drug, which can lead to miscarriage. Also, because of this effect of the medicine, it should not be taken during heavy menstrual and uterine bleeding.

Diabetics should be careful with this medicine. Typically, aloe extract is used to lower blood sugar. This is why it is dangerous in case of hypoglycemia. After all, in this state, sugar is already very low.

The juice should not be consumed for various internal diseases. For example, with lesions of the liver and gallbladder, nephritis of various nature, as well as with inflammation of the bladder. There are also some heart and vascular diseases that prevent you from drinking such a medicine.

Standards of use

Long-term use of aloe juice is strictly prohibited, which is associated with the accumulation of its active substances in the body. When the course of treatment is prolonged, biologically active substances from aloe begin to cause inflammatory reactions. This leads to stool disorders, stomach cramps, and pain in the kidney area. All of these symptoms indicate aloe poisoning due to an overdose of the drug. This is a reason to immediately consult a doctor.

In this case, the question arises, how much can you drink per day? Herbal medicine reference books indicate the following dosages: from 50 to 200 mg three times a day. This means that you can take up to 3 glasses of aloe juice per day. But this dosage is the maximum.

With long-term uncontrolled intake of aloe in any form (including juice), its carcinogenic ability has been observed. The thing is that the properties of aloe to stimulate cell restoration in this case extend not only to healthy cells of the body, but also to tumor cells. Therefore, it is imperative to observe moderation in the use of the drug for both treatment and prevention.

How to make aloe juice?

The healing drink is collected from the leaves of an adult plant, at least 3 years old. To do this, you just need to cut off the large lower leaves (13-15 cm in length) and wipe them with alcohol. Then the cut leaf is pierced with a needle in several places and pressed with fingers.

There is also a less gentle method, in which the amount of squeezed juice is greater than with the above method. The cut aloe leaves need to be coarsely chopped and passed through a meat grinder. The resulting pulp must be filtered. However, the juice obtained in this way tends to thicken.

The juice is very easily extracted from the fleshy, moisture-filled leaves. The main condition for using aloe juice at home is that the leaves must be cut off immediately before extracting the medicine. Freshly squeezed juice should be consumed immediately or within a couple of hours. It cannot be stored, because its active components are very quickly destroyed in air.

To enhance the effect of aloe on the body, a biostimulation process can be carried out before squeezing the juice. This process starts at low temperatures. Therefore, in order to significantly increase medicinal properties juice, before squeezing the leaves should be placed in the refrigerator for 12 hours.

In order to preserve freshly prepared aloe juice, it is preserved with alcohol. To do this, mix juice and alcohol in a ratio of 8 to 2. Store this mixture in a tightly sealed container in a dark and cool place. But for treatment it is still better to use only fresh juice.

Here are some recipes for healing and rejuvenation:

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What are the benefits and harms of aloe juice?

Before you figure out how to make aloe juice, you need to understand what healing properties it has. It is worth noting that all the positive qualities of this plant are based on the rich composition of its juice. Aloe vera contains the following substances in its cell sap:

• vitamins A, B, C and E. These components are well absorbed by the human body and almost never cause allergies;
• tannins. Thanks to them, agave juice has a pronounced anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect. They also help stop bleeding;
• organic types of acids: cinnamic, malic, as well as citric and succinic;
• phytoncides. They are a natural antibiotic. Phytoncides are able to resist bacteria, fungi, microbes and other types of pathogenic microflora;
• minerals: phosphorus, calcium, as well as zinc, iron, manganese and potassium;
• juice contains many amino acids. Some of them are not even produced by our body;
• resinous substances;
• mono- and polysaccharides;
• flavonoids.

As you can see, aloe juice, like for home flowers, has a rich macro- and microelement composition. It can even be used as fertilizer for indoor flora. For example, such feeding will not be superfluous during the flowering period of plants or after planting.

Thanks to such a rich composition, natural agave juice ( popular name plants) has the following properties:

• anti-inflammatory;
• antimicrobial;
• antifungal;
• soothing;
• regenerating. Aloe accelerates the healing process of wounds;
• stimulating the work of many internal organs.

The properties described above allow agave juice to have a positive effect on the circulatory system, digestion and human immunity. However, we should not forget that this flower not only brings benefits, but can also cause harm.

Video “Aloe: harm or benefit”

From this video you will learn about the beneficial and harmful properties of the aloe plant.

What harm does

Despite the impressive list of positive qualities that are characteristic of aloe, this plant can cause diarrhea. This is due to the fact that some components of the juice have laxative properties.

Diabetics should treat the biostimulated properties of agave with caution. The fact is that it is able to reduce blood sugar levels.

It is worth noting that this plant can cause harm only when used internally. If application folk remedy was incorrect, aloe can cause constipation, diarrhea, indigestion, severe pain, vomiting and inflammation. In rare cases, growths and malignant tumors can even develop on internal organs.

External use almost never causes negative consequences. Unless an allergic rash or irritation may appear, which is provoked by the biologically active substances of the flower.

Pregnant women should not take aloe juice as it can cause miscarriage. Therefore, remember not to self-medicate. If you want to use this traditional medicine, then consult your doctor first.

How to get and cook

To use aloe in medicinal purposes, you need to know how to prepare the desired solution from its juice. First, you should examine your indoor flower and choose the healthiest and most beautiful leaf.

The most useful are the leaves formed as close to the rhizome as possible. The fact that the leaf can be used for medicinal purposes is indicated by the slight yellowness at its tip.

The length of the leaf blade should be 15 cm. You can also take specimens 10–12 cm long. It is better not to use immature and small leaves, as they do not have pronounced medicinal properties. It is better to collect already mature leaves.

• First you need to cut off the leaf at the very base. You can separate the leaf from the main stem using either scissors or a knife;
• then the cut part of the plant must be thoroughly washed and dried;
• for convenience, all spines are removed from the leaf surface.

When the leaf is prepared, the juice can be extracted from it. To do this, the prepared leaf must be chopped with a well-sharpened knife. The resulting mass should be placed on sterile gauze, which was previously folded in several layers. Now all that remains is to squeeze out the juice, which can then be used to prepare various solutions according to a wide variety of recipes.

You can get the same mass by passing chopped agave leaves through a meat grinder. But after this you will still have to use gauze to clear the juice from large plant fragments.

You can squeeze the juice out of the plant with your hands. But this method will be the most impractical and time-consuming. Each gardener must decide for himself how exactly to squeeze the juice out of aloe.

Some experts advise stopping watering the flower about 2-3 weeks before the intended cutting of the leaves. Thus, the agave will accumulate the maximum amount of useful substances in its leaves.

The prepared solution can be either drunk orally or used to prepare compresses and lotions. The main condition for the effectiveness of such a folk remedy is a properly prepared solution. For treatment certain type diseases, there is a recipe for preparing medicine from aloe juice. For example, some solutions should be prepared in a water bath.

As you can see, the preparation of a medicinal drink can be carried out in various ways.

Once the home remedy is ready, it must be used for its intended purpose. Also, the prepared solution can be preserved and used when needed. However, it is worth noting that freshly prepared juice has the greatest healing power. If you prepare the product and leave it in the freezer, some of the healing properties will be lost.

To store aloe juice without losing its main positive qualities, you need to know the rules for storing it at home.

Storage rules

The prepared juice should be stored in a cool and dark place. It is best to use a refrigerator for these purposes. There is no need to freeze it.

Methods of application

Today there are several ways to use aloe juice:

• it can be drunk on an empty stomach. It is important to prepare the solution correctly here, since ingestion of this product can lead to negative consequences. One of the options for internal use is the use of suppositories in the treatment of hemorrhoids;
• applying compresses or lotions to the affected areas of the skin. The duration of use of compresses can range from several minutes to more than half an hour.

The method of application (external or internal) depends on what disease needs to be treated.

As you can see, aloe vera juice has many beneficial qualities. But it also has a number of contraindications that must be taken into account when using this plant for medicinal purposes.

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Aloe (agave)

According to the scientific classification, aloe is classified as a succulent perennial plant of the monocotyledonous perennial class of the xanthorea family. The above-described genus includes tree, shrub and herbaceous installations in dense fleshy leaves collected in characteristic rosettes. In this case, the edges of the leaves can be crowned with cilia, thorns or denticles, as well as a classic smooth structure.

On at the moment there are about five hundred in the world various types aloe, but in Russia the classic true aloe, the “tiger” analogue and the tree-like one (called “agagave”) are mostly common. Initially, aloe spread throughout the world from the African continent and the Arabian Peninsula, with some species growing in the Canary Islands.

The plant contains quite a few large number substances are powerful natural antioxidants, allantoin, beta carotene and vitamin complexes, as well as polysaccharides, glycosides, enzymes, phytoncytes, sterols and other substances of a biologically active nature.

Benefits of aloe

Aloe is one of the first plants in the world to be used for medicinal purposes. According to some sources, the first medical written sources, dating back to the thousandth year BC, contained recipes for preparing decoctions and compresses from the above-described plant.

At the moment, traditional medicine knows hundreds of ways to use both aloe pulp and its juice, both as an external and internal remedy.

The plant has pronounced healing properties and is excellent at healing wounds and cuts. In addition, aloe pulp is used to normalize the functioning of the gastrointestinal system, as well as in the treatment of duodenum and as restorative agent after an ulcer.

As the practice of traditional medicine shows, the active components of aloe have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-burn, and also bacteriostatic effects. It easily treats dermatitis, relieves irritation, normalizes intestinal motility, and treats eczema. Aloe directly affects macrophages of soft and thin skin, so very often the plant extract can be found in specific anti-aging cosmetics.

Benefits of aloe juice

The most convenient form of consuming aloe for treatment purposes is juice. It is quite simple to obtain: thanks to the large fleshy leaves filled with nutritious moisture, it is very easy to obtain a liquid substance by squeezing at home, which can be used both internally and externally. It should be remembered that freshly squeezed aloe juice must be used within a maximum of several hours, and the leaves must be picked immediately before squeezing, since in the open air it quickly loses its active substances and no longer exhibits the much-needed powerful biological activity. An alternative method is to keep freshly picked aloe leaves in the refrigerator for twelve hours, and then squeeze the juice and use it for its intended purpose: according to the research of Academician Filatov, in this way, biostimulation is activated inside the aloe structure and the medicinal properties of the plant are enhanced.

A world-famous recipe for treating a runny nose is to instill a few drops of undiluted aloe juice into each nostril: this procedure helps cleanse the mucous membranes, relieve inflammation and get rid of snot.

Aloe juice is also used to treat gastrointestinal diseases, ulcers, anemia, as an adjuvant against tuberculosis and bronchial asthma. The plant liquid is also used in ophthalmic practice, mainly as an auxiliary therapy in the treatment and prevention of keratitis, blepharitis, clouding of the lens of the eye, myopia and conjunctivitis. Compresses based on aloe juice are effective against inflammation of the oral cavity, ulcers and wounds, as well as other skin lesions.

For direct ingestion, not pure juice is used, but a mixture of it with fruit juice or boiled water.

How to prepare aloe juice?

Aloe juice can be easily prepared at home! For this procedure you will need a meat grinder, a knife, one large aloe bush and alcohol, preferably medical alcohol.

1. To begin, carefully cut the required number of plant leaves from the bush. Their readiness is quite easy to determine: choose mature shoots that have slightly dried out tips and are at least 13-15 centimeters long. Leave the young leaves! They did not reach the required condition. Most often, ripe shoots are located at the base of the bush or in its middle.
2. Place the first portion of leaves in the meat grinder and intensively grind the leaves, adding material as necessary.
3. Strain the resulting juice; the remaining pulp can also be used for its intended purpose. If you do not plan to use the juice right away, you can preserve it. To do this, take aloe and alcohol in a ratio of 8 to 2, sterilize the jar, put the mixture in there and preserve it, placing the container in a cool and dark place.

Harm

It should be remembered that aloe is absolutely safe only for external use! In all other cases when using this tool possible side effects.

The main danger that aloe can pose to the body is an overdose - under certain circumstances, the juice of the plant in high concentrations can cause poisoning and accompanying diarrhea, inflammation, stomach pain, and in rare cases, nephritis. Do not use the product during pregnancy, as this will almost certainly cause a miscarriage.

Constant, long-term use of aloe pulp or juice internally is also prohibited - the course of treatment with this remedy should not exceed two weeks. Studies have shown that very long-term systemic intake of plant juice or pulp can induce the development of both benign and malignant tumors, while the drug acts as a carcinogen and accumulates in the body.

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Benefits of aloe juice for the body

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Medicinal properties and benefits of aloe juice

The plant has the following medicinal properties:

• bactericidal: destructive to many microbes, bacteria, intestinal infections;
• immunostimulating: strengthens the body as a whole, gives strength;
• anti-inflammatory: accelerates wound healing;
• antioxidant: preserves youth;
• antiseptic: disinfects wounds;
• laxatives: indicated for constipation;
• diuretic;
• pain reliever;
• antihistamines: relieves itching, swelling;
• regenerating: promotes skin cell renewal.

Interesting! The benefits of using aloe juice are explained by the fact that it contains useful substances: enzymes, amino acids, vitamins (ascorbic and folic acid, vitamin B), mineral salts (calcium, magnesium, copper), polysaccharides, phenolic compounds.

How to make juice at home

Prepare juice at home. To do this, you must use a plant older than three years. The leaf must be at least 15 cm long.

Know! Cut leaves better in winter or in spring, do not water the plant for 2 weeks beforehand. The lower fleshy (choose the larger ones) leaves are carefully cut off at the base and separated from the trunk. Then they are washed well, dried, wrapped in thick dark cloth or foil and placed in the refrigerator for two weeks.

There are several ways to squeeze juice from aloe.

Method 1

Chop the leaves and add water in a ratio of 1:3. Then place in a cool, dark place for an hour and a half. Next, squeeze out the juice and filter. The prepared solution cannot be stored - it must be prepared immediately before use.

Method 2

Cut the leaves into small cubes with a knife. Take gauze folded in 3-4 layers and put pieces of aloe there. Squeeze out the juice and strain through cheesecloth. This composition can be stored in the refrigerator.

Method 3

Finely chop the leaves. Grind them with a meat grinder or blender. Squeeze out the juice using gauze folded in several layers. Store in a cool, dark place.

Important! Don't make a lot of juice. Since the product is completely natural, it does not last long even in the refrigerator.

Recipes with aloe juice in medicine

The juice of this plant is actively used in the treatment of many diseases. Let's look at the most popular recipes.

Cold remedy

For the body, in order to prevent seasonal colds, you need to take:

• 100 ml aloe juice;
• 50 g walnut;
• 100 ml liquid honey;
• juice from half a lemon.

Chop the nuts and mix them with juices and honey. Leave for a day. Use 1 tbsp. l. every time before meals. This recipe can be used for children, but give 1 tsp.

For the stomach

To increase appetite and produce gastric enzymes for medicinal purposes, use the following tincture:

• 100 g aloe leaves.
• 5 liters of vodka.

Finely chop the prepared leaves, put them in a jar and pour vodka. Use this tincture 1 tsp. 30 minutes before meals. Store it in the refrigerator.

For vision

Ophthalmologists recommend using aloe juice for the eyes. Leave the finely chopped leaves of the plant in a dark place for an hour. Then bring to a boil, strain and store in a dark glass bottle. Wipe the eyelids with the resulting tincture for inflammation.

For the liver

The juice is good for the liver: it prevents the occurrence of cirrhosis. You can make herbal tea:

• mix crushed aloe and St. John's wort leaves with nettle roots (2:2:1);
• add 700 ml of boiling water. Boil over low heat for 20 minutes;
• Infuse tea for at least an hour, strain through cheesecloth.

You can add a little honey to your tea. Drink 100 ml of the product three times a day.

For masculine strength

Aloe juice has a positive effect on improving potency. Since it contains potassium, the walls of blood vessels are strengthened and they are cleared of cholesterol. The blood thins, and it is known that an erection is achieved due to its active flow to the penis. The best recipe for men – a mixture of aloe and nuts. You need to mix 500 g of walnuts, 300 g of honey, 200 ml of aloe juice. Take 1 tbsp each time before meals. l.

For diabetes

Aloe leaves have beneficial properties in the treatment of a disease such as diabetes. It reduces blood glucose levels, normalizes cholesterol levels, and helps strengthen the walls of blood vessels. Diabetics are recommended to drink aloe juice in the form of alcohol or honey tincture:

• mix leaves and alcohol or vodka (1:5);
• combine crushed leaves and honey (1:1).

Do not store the tincture at first less than a month in a dark, closed container, then use to treat type 2 diabetes.

Recipes in cosmetology

If a woman wants to have beautiful hair and appearance, she definitely needs to use the juice of this plant. It is able to retain moisture, so it is especially recommended for the care of dry skin and hair. As already mentioned, aloe is an excellent antioxidant; it can rejuvenate facial skin. Anti-inflammatory properties will be useful girls with oily skin. We offer recipes for making face and hair masks.

For dry skin

For dry skin, it is recommended to mix aloe pulp and homemade sour cream (1:1). Apply to previously cleansed face, neck and décolleté for 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Make this mask twice a week for a month.

For oily skin

Oily skin can benefit from lotions made from aloe juice. They cleanse, tighten pores and disinfect the skin. You need to pour the aloe pulp with alcohol (4:1), wipe the skin of your face with the prepared solution twice a day.

You can prepare aloe juice in water, pour it into ice cube trays and place it in the freezer. Rub your face with an ice cube along the massage lines in the morning instead of washing your face. There is no need to wipe your face dry - let the lotion dry.

For normal skin

For normal skin, a mask made from the pulp of leaves with honey is suitable. For it, mix the ingredients in equal parts and leave on your face for 15 minutes.

Anti-aging mask

Mix 1 tbsp. l. homemade sour cream with 1 tsp. aloe juice and yolk. The mask must be applied in layers (first one layer, when it dries, apply a second, etc.). 20 minutes after the last layer, rinse with water and apply nourishing cream.

For hair

Aloe is able to fight hair loss, stimulate growth, moisturize, and smooth it. For increased hair loss and baldness, the following mask is recommended: mix aloe juice with liquid honey (1 tablespoon each), add 1 tsp. garlic juice and yolk. Apply the composition to the hair roots and insulate with a towel. Keep for 30 minutes.

Contraindications

Despite all the benefits and naturalness of the product, aloe can cause harm to the body. It is not recommended to take it if a person is allergic to this plant. In addition, treatment is inappropriate in the case of:

• renal failure;
• liver diseases;
• exacerbations of chronic pathologies;
• hypertension;
• during pregnancy;
• with internal bleeding.

Aloe is an amazing house plant. One leaf can improve health, give strength and vigor, and also have a positive effect on beauty and youth.

Miracle plant, agave, silent doctor... People call the evergreen succulent aloe no matter what. There are legends about its amazing properties. What is the power of agave, what benefits does a homemade aloe flower bring and does it cause harm?

History of aloe from ancient times to the present day

People knew about the healing properties of agave back in ancient times. Countless confirmations are intertwined in the history of the healing flower with parables and legends. The first mention of the medicinal use of fleshy leaves was found on clay plates from the reign of Akkad, the leader of the Sumerians.

Agave occupied a key place among medicinal plants in the sacred treatise “Atarvaveda”. Mention of the miracle plant is contained in many sections of the book of all times - the Bible.

The “silent doctor” was highly valued among the ancient Egyptians. The pharaohs put it on the same level as the elixir of longevity. Aloe, as the flower of eternity, was an inseparable prop of funeral ceremonies and was part of the composition for mummification. Representatives of the fair sex actively used the juice of the flower to prolong youth and beauty. There is a version that the world-famous eyes of the great Cleopatra owe their mesmerizing radiance to drops prepared from the juice of agave. The no less noble queen Nefertiti also owes the radiant color of her face to the same plant, since she took daily baths with the addition of donkey milk and plant juice.

IN Ancient Greece the agave was a symbol of beauty and health. This succulent is mentioned in the writings of Heraclitus as a cure for stomach diseases, the elimination of dysentery and the treatment of tumors.

The father of Roman medicine, Celsius, also spoke highly of the unique properties of aloe. In his works, he described examples of successful healing of wounds and deep abrasions, stopping bleeding, and stopping hemorrhoidal formations.

Lily of the desert - this is what the Arab Bedouins called the healing flower. During periods of epidemics, they ate them.

The agave did not lose its relevance in the Renaissance. Here are just some of the properties described in the medical treatise of the Salerno school that has survived to this day:

• the juice dries wounds and revitalizes the flesh;
• strengthens the stomach and restores the liver;
• removes heaviness from the tongue and sharpens hearing;
• Gives clarity to the mind and clears the eyes.

During the legendary voyage of Columbus, agave juice helped the crew of the Santa Maria, exhausted by hunger and prolonged illness, to survive. For this, with the light hand of the navigator, another name was assigned to the agave - doctor in a pot.

Aloe has always been considered the king of the plant kingdom in the land of the rising sun.

In an effort to become invulnerable and gain immortality, samurai treated their weapons with it before battle. After bloody battles, chopped wounds were successfully treated. Today, the bitter juice from the leaves is used for a variety of purposes: it is eaten, drunk, rubbed into wounds, and used as a cosmetic.

From legend to science

The centuries-old fame of the benefits of the homemade aloe flower has prompted scientists to conduct a detailed study of its medicinal properties. Much to the amazement of scientists who did not particularly trust “grandmother’s” recipes, the analysis not only confirmed the known unique properties, but also revealed a number of new ones. Researchers have found that the bitter-tasting pulp of the succulent contains over 200 useful substances, each of which has unique properties:

• vitamins A, B, C, E;
• polysaccharides;
• enzymes;
• phenolic compounds;
• organic acids;
• bioflavonoids;
• mineral salts;
• resinous compounds.

In most countries where traditional medicine has not completely supplanted the heritage of folk healing, agave remains one of the key medicines.

Recipes for all diseases

There are over 350 species of agave in nature. But only aloe vera is famous for its healing properties. For medicinal and cosmetic purposes, the lower leaves of three-year-old plants, which have accumulated the largest number of useful microelements, are used. Based on them, juice is prepared by direct extraction.

According to the observations of Russian ophthalmologist V. Filatov, the most effective extracts can be obtained from biostimulated plants. To start the synthesis of active compounds, cut leaves are placed in a plastic bag, blocking the access of air, and sent to the refrigerator, where the temperature is maintained within + 2 ° C, for 14-15 days.

Important point! The prepared juice can be stored at room temperature for no more than 2 hours, since when it reacts with air, the natural preparation literally loses its strength before our eyes.

Colds

Agave has found its widest use in the treatment of colds.

• For a runny nose, it is dropped into the nose; for a sore throat, it is used to gargle. To reduce the saturation of freshly squeezed juice, it is diluted with a small proportion of purified water at room temperature.
• The combination drug gives excellent results. To make it, the ground pulp of the leaves is mixed in equal proportions with freshly squeezed carrot or beet juice. The freshly prepared product is instilled into each nostril, 5 drops. To speed up the effect, the procedure is repeated every 5 hours.
• A decoction of the leaves helps cure a persistent cough. To prepare it, 350 grams of raw materials are mixed with 125 ml of water and boiled over low heat for 1.5-2 hours. Add 300 honey to the decoction cooled to room temperature and infuse for 24 hours in a cool place protected from sunlight. Take 1 tbsp of tasty medicine. l after each meal.

Wound healing drug

The homemade aloe flower has long been recognized as an effective wound-healing agent. The liquid released from the leaves has a complex effect:

• accelerates the healing processes of superficial healing on the skin;
• restores the mucous membrane of the internal organs of the gastrointestinal tract;
• removes inflammation and manifestations of ulcerative lesions.

Natural antiseptic juice is good for relieving skin inflammation and treating burns, removing boils and acne, treating cracks in the corners of the lips and herpetic lesions.

An ointment for the rapid healing of wounds and ulcers is prepared on the basis of ground pulp and honey, taken in equal proportions. The mixture is seasoned with 1 tbsp of medical alcohol and mixed well. To allow for repeated use, the prepared composition is stored on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator.

Compresses from freshly squeezed juice help extinguish foci of eczema, manifestations of lupus and skin tuberculosis.

Tip: to relieve pain, just apply a leaf of the plant, placing the cut on the skin.

Natural immunomodulator

Natural therapists prescribe ingestion of the juice of the fleshy leaves as an immunomodulatory agent. The biostimulants present in them activate metabolic processes in the cells of the body's tissues. To boost immunity, a product is prepared based on:

• 300 grams of aloe juice;
• 3 tbsp. honey;
• 3 tbsp. medical alcohol.

If desired, alcohol can be replaced with 100 grams of fortified red wine. The three-component composition is kept for 5 days and consumed 3 times a day immediately before meals, eating 10-15 grams at a time. It helps to quickly restore strength after suffering protracted illnesses and improve overall well-being.

For weakened children, a nutritious four-component mixture is best suited:

• 150 grams of agave juice;
• 500 grams of crushed walnuts;
• juice from 3-4 lemons;
• 300 grams of honey.

The nutritional mixture, depending on the age of the child, is consumed 5-15 grams before each meal.

Cosmetic and dietary product

The value of the succulent is due to its regenerating properties. The polysaccharides contained in agave juice have a complex effect:

• rejuvenate the epidermis;
• strengthen collagen fibers;
• maintain skin elasticity;
• form a protective film, protecting the fabrics of the upper layers from the aggressive effects of sunlight.

Having a homemade aloe flower on hand, anyone can take care of their skin at a minimum cost by making various masks, balms and creams. To create one of these masks, which has a refreshing effect and improves complexion, the juice is mixed in equal parts with cream. To soothe inflamed skin, the main ingredient is combined with honey. To dry oily skin, a mask is made from crushed leaves and egg white.

Freshly prepared juice is convenient to use in its pure form. A natural toner is applied every time after cleansing the face, rubbing into areas with a moistened disc. Daily wipes help tighten pores and relieve inflammation.

The only contraindication to choosing aloe as a cosmetic product is such “grinding” procedures as dermabrasion and chemical peeling. After such “treatment” the skin is very sensitive and vulnerable. Aloe in this case can cause irritation and even dermatitis.

Many women actively use the juice of the fleshy leaves for weight loss. In small doses, agave improves appetite and activates digestion. For those who want to lose weight, it has a double effect: it stimulates intestinal motility and has a mild laxative effect.

When is aloe harmful?

The use of aloe, like any other natural component, has a number of certain limitations. It is not recommended to use agave for both internal and external use:

• mature people aged 40 years and older;
• suffering from diseases of the liver, kidneys,
• with internal and heavy external bleeding;
• in the last trimester of pregnancy;
• with the manifestation of acute diarrhea.

The use of aloe is contraindicated for young children, as well as people with individual intolerance.

To avoid insomnia, products based on this component should be consumed at least a couple of hours before bedtime. It is important to take into account that with prolonged use, mineral substances, in particular potassium, begin to be removed from the body, thereby disturbing the water-salt balance.

In many apartments you can now find these ornamental plants. But not everyone knows that aloe vera plants are not only beautiful, but also useful. Aloe has been used since ancient times to treat various diseases. However, there are many nuances in herbal medicine. Therefore, it is worth understanding what diseases the plant treats, how to use it, what properties and contraindications it has. It should be remembered that aloe also contains toxic and harmful compounds, so you can use the healing properties of the plant only if you have complete information about it.

Description

Aloe is a genus of flowering plants in the Xanthorrhoeaceae family, numbering about 500 species. Most members of the genus are succulents that grow in arid tropical regions and have mechanisms for conserving water. At the same time, plants are distinguished by their love of light and warmth. Aloe plants are very diverse in size. These can be trees 10 m high, or small plants. A characteristic feature of representatives of the genus is thick sword-shaped leaves extending in all directions from the trunk, usually covered with a whitish coating and equipped with thorns along the edges. In nature, the leaves of the plant serve to accumulate moisture. For medicinal purposes, it is mainly the leaves, sometimes parts of the stem, that are used.

What is the difference between aloe and aloe vera and what is the difference between agave and aloe?

No more than one and a half dozen species of the aloe genus are used in medicine. Of these, the two most famous for their medicinal properties are aloe vera or true aloe and tree aloe or agave. Thus, aloe is the name of a genus of plants, and agave and aloe vera are separate species. Although in everyday life both of these plants are often simply called aloe, which can cause confusion, since it is not clear which plant we are talking about.

The medicinal properties of both types are similar, but have some differences. It is believed that aloe vera is more useful for treating skin diseases, wounds and cuts, and aloe vera has stronger healing properties when used internally.

Aloe vera

The plant's homeland is Northeast Africa. It is a little over half a meter in height and has fleshy, slightly bluish leaves growing from the lower part of the stem.

Aloe now grows wild in various regions - the Canary Islands, North Africa. The plant can also be found on the Arabian Peninsula. Even the word “aloe” itself is of Arabic origin. It means “bitter” because the leaves of the plant contain substances that taste bitter.

The plant can also be grown at home. It takes root well in an apartment, but rarely blooms.

Agave

Grows mainly in South Africa - Mozambique and Zimbabwe. The plant extract was used by the ancient Egyptians to embalm mummies. The plant looks like a small tree or shrub 2-5 m tall. Fleshy leaves grow at the top of the trunk. The inflorescence has the appearance of a long raceme with bright orange flowers.

Can also be used as a house plant. However, home-grown specimens are significantly smaller than their wild counterparts.

Chemical composition of leaves

Aloe is a unique plant. In terms of the number of active biological substances it contains (approximately 250), it has no equal among representatives of the flora.

The main component of the plant leaves is water (97%).

You can also find in the leaves:

• Esters
• Essential oils
• Simple organic acids (malic, citric, cinnamic, succinic and others)
• Phytoncides
• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Resins
• Vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B9, C, E)
• Beta carotene
• Amino acids (including glycine, glutamic and aspartic acids, essential amino acids)
• Polysaccharides (glucomannans and acemannan)
• Monosaccharides (glucose and fructose)
• Anthraglycosides
• Anthraquinone
• Allantoin
• Microelements – selenium, calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, manganese, phosphorus, zinc, copper and others
• Alkaloids, including aloins

Application

Aloe is known primarily as ornamental plants with an unusual appearance. Meanwhile, the medicinal properties of aloe became known several thousand years ago. Various parts of the plant were successfully used by Egyptian priests and ancient doctors. Modern science confirms it healing properties. They are explained by a unique complex of vitamins, microelements, amino acids and other compounds that have a beneficial effect on various systems of the human body.

But even when grown as indoor plant aloe can bring medicinal benefits, because it refreshes the air and enriches it with phytoncides. In addition to medicine, the plant extract is widely used in cosmetics and perfumes. The juice and pulp are used for cooking.

Medical use

Typically, the juice obtained from the fleshy leaves or outer parts of the stem (sapwood) is used in medicine. Both fresh juice and evaporated juice (sabur) can be used. The juice is obtained by collecting it from freshly cut leaves. It is also possible to obtain juice using a press. The aloe flower, despite its beauty, has no medical use.

Photo: Trum Ronnarong/Shutterstock.com

Fresh juice and sabur are the most useful types of drugs. Their high effect is explained complex action on the body of various compounds. Some components of the plant, which can be found in various pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, do not have such a high effect due to the use of preservatives.

In addition, aloe oil is widely used in medicine and cosmetics. It is also prepared from the leaves. In traditional and folk medicine, dosage forms such as syrup, gel, ointment and liquid extract are also used. In some cases, the extract can be administered intramuscularly by injection.

What does aloe cure?

The components of the plant have a positive effect on the following systems and organs of the human body:

• cardiovascular system
• gastrointestinal tract
• immune system
• nervous system
• eyes

Also components of the plant:

• Have antifungal and antiviral effects
• Removes toxins and waste from the body
• Increases the overall tone of the body
• Restore intestinal microflora
• Lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels
• Accelerate hair growth and prevent hair loss
• Improve blood circulation
• Helps with allergic diseases
• Relieves muscle, joint and toothaches
• Used in dentistry to treat stomatitis, gingivitis and plaque
• Used as a prophylactic against cancer and as an aid in their treatment
• They have antioxidant, diuretic and laxative properties
• Used to treat diseases respiratory tract(tuberculosis, bronchial asthma, pneumonia)
• Used in gynecology in the treatment of diseases such as candidiasis, vaginosis, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, genital herpes

Aloe juice has a powerful bactericidal effect. It is active against:

• staphylococci
• streptococci
• dysentery bacillus
• typhoid bacillus
• diphtheria bacillus

Different pulp compounds are responsible for improving the functioning of various body systems. For example, the anti-inflammatory effect of the plant is explained by the presence of salicylic acid, a laxative - anthraquinone and aloins, a choleretic effect - zinc and selenium, etc.

Application in gastroenterology

Sabur improves intestinal motility. It can be used as a laxative and choleretic agent, as well as a digestive aid. In addition, preparations obtained from the plant are used for:

• Gastritis
• Enterocolitis
• Gastroenteritis
• Ulcerative colitis
• Gastric and duodenal ulcers

Application in dermatology

The plant is most beneficial in the treatment of skin diseases. Oil is most suitable for application to the skin. The oil has bactericidal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and wound-healing properties and is used to treat various dermatitis, rashes, psoriasis, urticaria, eczema, acne, bedsores, burns, wounds.

Application in ophthalmology

Aloe juice can be used to treat various ophthalmological diseases - conjunctivitis, inflammation of the mucous membrane, progressive myopia and even cataracts. The healing properties of aloe for the eyes are explained by the presence of an extensive complex of vitamins in the plant, primarily vitamin A. The components contained in the juice improve blood supply to the retina and tissues surrounding the eyes.

Photo: Ruslan Guzov / Shutterstock.com

Application for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases

The beneficial effects of plant components on cardiovascular system is primarily due to enzymes that reduce the amount of bad cholesterol and sugar in the blood and prevent the formation of blood clots. Studies have shown that taking 10-20 ml of juice daily can reduce total cholesterol levels by 15% within a few months. Research also shows that the plant gel may reduce the risk of coronary artery disease.

Contraindications

Internal use of preparations from the plant is contraindicated for:

• Exacerbation of gastrointestinal diseases
• Individual intolerance
• Severe hypertension and severe pathologies of the cardiovascular system
• Bleeding – hemorrhoidal, uterine, menstruation
• Hepatitis A
• Cholecystitis
• Jade
• Cystitis
• Hemorrhoids
• Under 3 years of age
• Pregnancy

Ointments and oils used for wound healing and in dermatology have fewer contraindications. In particular, they can be used by pregnant women. To treat children, ointments can be used starting from one year of age.

Treatment of children under 12 years of age with internal remedies is recommended only after consultation with a pediatrician. Aloe vera preparations should be prescribed to older people with caution. During lactation, the use of internal medications is also not recommended.

Side effects

Most of the compounds contained in the plant have a positive effect on the human body. However, there are exceptions to this rule.

When using the extract, remember that the skin of the leaves contains bitter substances. But bitterness itself is far from their main drawback. Modern research suggests that the bitter alkaloid aloin has carcinogenic properties. Although aloin in small concentrations and with occasional use is most likely not dangerous (moreover, it is used in aloe-based laxatives and is also used as a food additive), it is still recommended to thoroughly clean them when preparing juice from the leaves. peels.

The plant also contains special enzymes - antaglycosides. If overdosed, they can lead to bleeding and miscarriages in pregnant women.

When taking the juice internally, gastrointestinal tract disturbances are possible - dyspepsia, heartburn, diarrhea, abdominal pain. Occasionally, blood in the urine, heart rhythm disturbances, and muscle weakness may occur. It is not recommended to take plant preparations immediately before bed, as this may cause insomnia.

Use at home

Of course, for treatment you can buy various drugs at the pharmacy that contain plant components. However, it is most effective to use fresh aloe juice. It can be prepared from plants grown at home yourself.

Growing

The plant does not require much care. Since it is adapted to arid climates, it can do without frequent watering. It is enough to do this 1-2 times a week, in winter – once a month. However, it is worth considering that the plant loves warmth and sun, so a well-warmed and lit place is better suited for it. In winter, the plant must be protected from cold and drafts. The easiest way to propagate a plant is with the help of apical shoots, cuttings and shoots that grow at the base of the shoots.

The largest leaves with a dried top, located at the bottom of the stem, are most suitable for cutting. Don’t be afraid to remove them, as the plant can quickly grow new ones. Before removing leaves, it is best not to water the plant for a couple of weeks, as this helps concentrate the nutrients.

Leaves must be cut, picked or broken off at the very base. The juice can either be squeezed out by hand, or the leaves can be crushed and passed through a meat grinder or blender. For the preparation of some compositions, this method is preferable. Before chopping the leaves, be sure to remove the skin from them.

It should be remembered that only fresh leaves have the greatest benefits, so the leaves should be removed only before preparing the medicine. Within a few hours, many active compounds begin to disintegrate. Juice or pulp from the leaves should also not be stored. for a long time, even in the refrigerator. Of course, they will not deteriorate, but at the same time they will lose many of their beneficial properties.

Making aloe vera medicine at home

Below are some juice or pulp recipes that you can prepare at home. Very often honey is added to the juice, which enhances the effect of aloe. However, when using honey, you should keep in mind that it is a strong allergen, even stronger than aloe itself. The dosage should be strictly followed as aloe vera products may cause some side effects. It should be remembered that these recipes do not replace treatment, but can only complement it. Before using them, you should consult your doctor.

To improve digestion, as well as to strengthen the body after serious illnesses, it is recommended to mix:

• 150 g juice
• 250 g honey
• 350 g strong red wine

This mixture should be infused for 5 days. Take a tablespoon three times a day before meals.

For children, another recipe is suitable for strengthening the body:

• Half a glass of juice
• 500 g crushed walnuts
• 300 g honey
• juice of 3-4 lemons

Take a teaspoon 3 times a day before meals.

During the course of treatment for tuberculosis, the following mixture is suitable:

• 15 g juice
• 100 g butter
• 100 g cocoa powder
• 100 g honey

The mixture should be taken 3 times a day, one tablespoon at a time.

When treating ulcerative colitis, it is recommended to take 25-50 ml of juice twice a day. For gastritis, take the juice one teaspoon half an hour before meals for 1-2 months. For constipation and colitis, it is also recommended to take a teaspoon of juice before meals.

For stomach and duodenal ulcers, you can prepare a composition by taking 0.5 cups of crushed leaves and ¾ cup of honey. The mixture must be infused for 3 days in a dark place. Then add a glass of Cahors, leave for another day and strain. Take a tablespoon 3 times a day before meals.

Pure juice can be used to treat respiratory diseases. For a runny nose, it is recommended to instill 3 drops into each nostril every day. The course of treatment is a week. For a sore throat, gargling with plant juice diluted in equal proportions with water will help. For stomatitis, you can also use freshly squeezed juice for rinsing.

To treat neuroses, mix aloe leaves, carrots and spinach and squeeze the juice out of them. You should take two tablespoons of juice three times a day.

When treating conjunctivitis and inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyes, the paste from the leaves should be diluted with water in a ratio of 1:5. Undiluted juice cannot be used! Leave the mixture for an hour, boil for an hour and strain. The resulting liquid must be used to apply lotions and wipes.

• 3 tbsp. l. juice
• 6 tbsp. l. honey
• 9 tbsp. l. vodka

The components are mixed and the resulting substance is moistened with gauze, which is applied to the affected area.

About the life-giving juice of the plant exists ancient legend. Many years ago, under the hot African sun, a tall, prickly, unremarkable Aloe grew. It had no flowers and no one paid attention to it. Aloe whiled away the time by looking at the patterns in the sand and the white clouds floating across the sky. He didn't care about his elegant flower neighbors. But one day he saw a beautiful rose and fell madly in love with it. The proud woman did not respond to his love, she only looked with contempt at his ugly thorns and twisted figure and turned away. Aloe suffered for a long time, listening to the ridicule of neighboring flowers. And then, having recovered from unrequited love, he blossomed. And the flowers of Aloe were so beautiful that even the rose faded before its splendor. And the dense leaves of Aloe were filled with life-giving juice from the joy and fullness of life.

Benefits of aloe

The juice of this plant helps fight streptococci, staphylococci, diphtheria, typhoid and dysentery bacilli.

Regular use of aloe juice in cosmetology has a tonic, nourishing and moisturizing effect on any skin. It can regenerate skin tissue, smooth out wrinkles and relieve inflammation in problem areas of the skin.

Biostimulation

Biostimulated juice can be used internally, externally, or as an additive to creams, masks, lotions for skin and hair.

Aloe vera is a plant whose beneficial properties for the human body have been known for a long time. Just as it heals the skin, it is ideal against sunburn. It acts as a body cleanser. Do you want to ensure high-quality detoxification of the body? Make an aloe vera drink and wash your body from the inside.

Juicy aloe leaves are a treasure trove of valuable substances for beauty and health. Treatments based on this plant are quick, easy and very effective way skin regeneration. Aloe juice treats stubborn wounds and allergies, and reduces sugar levels. Aloe creams, gels and ointments are used for many skin diseases, such as ulcers, burns, and wounds.

The fleshy leaves of aloe contain many active substances, for example, barbaloin, aloin, aloe-emodin. They are used for the production of bactericidal and strengthening drugs.

The most famous are the choleretic and laxative properties of aloe. For this reason, be sure to use aloe preparations carefully. They can promote the leaching of electrolytes, especially potassium. Pregnant women should not take aloe vera preparations.

Aloe vera and extracts are good for complex skin problems: pressure ulcers, ulcers, radiation wounds. Aloe also contains antiprostaglandins, which have an analgesic effect and inhibit inflammatory processes. Preparations with aloe are recommended for neuralgia and rheumatism. There is evidence that drinking aloe juice reduces sugar levels in diabetes.

Aloe juice stimulates and strengthens the immune system and the body begins to fight the cause of disease. This is the most valuable, although not the least known, property of aloe.

Aloe gel has found its use in cosmetics due to the properties of aloe. Aloe vera comes in many varieties. The hard, long leaves with thorns contain a jelly-like substance with valuable ingredients. Aloe is rich in vitamins A, C, E and B. In addition, it contains mineral salts such as potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, sulfur and copper, as well as organic acids, including succinic acid. Aloe gel has regenerating and bactericidal properties. It works great on hair and skin.

Aloe belongs to plants that store water in their tissues. This is why it can tolerate drought well. The plant likes the sun's rays. Aloe vera grows best on a windowsill. The soil for aloe should be sandy and loamy with moderate watering. If you want to use aloe for medicinal purposes at home, the plant must be 3 years old and its leaves must be about 20 cm long. Stop watering it a week before collecting the leaves.

Aloe juice improves digestion, strengthens immune function and eases general discomfort. However, there is little scientific data to support its use in humans. Moreover, some toxicity studies conducted on animals were alarming.

Aloe vera gel, obtained by breaking green leafy skin, is often used to treat abrasions, psoriasis, burns and other skin conditions. Aloe vera juice, extracted from the leaves, has been used as a major ingredient in many over-the-counter laxative medications.

We should await the results of further research to ensure that aloe vera provides significant health benefits without negative effects. side effects. If you decide to drink aloe vera juice at this time, consult your doctor first.

If you dilute healing aloe gel with lemon juice, then such liquid will be more easily absorbed into the bloodstream. Once digested, aloe helps relieve fatigue by increasing energy production from within. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are not recommended to consume aloe ingredients.

Aloe vera is a soothing herb that is often used to relieve irritation and sunburn. It can also be a good supplement to help you lose weight and fight inflammation throughout your body.

Aloe juice used inside the body works as follows:

• It supports the functioning of the digestive system, speeds up metabolism, and regulates the pH of the stomach. Because of this, it can be used to relieve symptoms of gastritis, ulcers or inflammation of the digestive system. Supports weight loss.
• It has a laxative effect and can be used to treat constipation. This improves the functioning of the intestinal villi, which are responsible for the absorption of nutrients.
• Supports the cleansing functions of the liver, kidneys and skin. Absorbs toxins, which are then eliminated from the body through the colon.
• Stimulates appetite and the production of digestive juices.
• It strengthens the immune system and increases the body's resistance to infections and viruses.
• It has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the heart and blood vessels, regulates blood pressure and reduces bad cholesterol levels.

Aloe juice can also be used externally. In this case, its operation is as follows:

• It helps regenerate skin and accelerates wound healing.
• It soothes skin irritations.
• It restores pH on the skin.
• Moisturizes the skin of the face and scalp.
• Strengthens hair and stimulates its growth.
• Relieves inflammation in the mouth.
• Soothes ailments after mosquito bites.

WITH ok aloe vera. Properties and use.

The juice helps in detoxification, supports the functioning of the intestines, liver, kidneys and skin. This balances out too many acidic foods in the body and alkalizes the body. According to researchers, this has a positive effect on the circulatory system, reduces the amount of cholesterol in the blood, and reduces the possibility of heart disease.

Aloe also strengthens the immune system and slows down the aging of the body. It is a disinfectant, antiseptic, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal agent. It helps the body eliminate infections and supports the action of antibodies. This reduces inflammation. It also supports weight loss, improves digestion and removes toxic substances from the body.

It has a laxative, bactericidal effect, and increases bile-forming activity. It helps with bloating, reflux and irritable bowel syndrome. The juice also has a soothing, moisturizing and cooling effect. Therefore, it is recommended for people with skin problems and women during menopause.

The drink, due to its high content of healthy substances, is also recommended for tired and stressed people; it calms, nourishes and relieves tension.

The juice has a great effect on the condition of the skin, increases the production of collagen and elastin. This makes the complexion youthful and radiant. It soothes irritations and even accelerates hair growth.

You can make aloe juice at home without any problems. To make the juice you need to have a handful of potted aloe leaves or one large leaf. In addition, you should also have freshly squeezed citrus juice, such as orange, grapefruit or lemon.

Aloe leaves for recipes must be older than two years, but younger than five years. This is why we need to know the age of the plant and propagate it, noting when we planted the young seedlings. Gardeners recommend buying plants with a height of about 30 cm, then the lower leaves are already suitable for use.

Check to see if the plant has side shoots. If so, then he has been alive for more than a year. The best raw material is aloe vera. Aloe requires sandy soil, but it does not like to stand in direct sunlight. To prevent root rot, moisture is needed in moderation. Aloe should be watered once or twice a week.

If we are going to use the leaves for juice or tincture, then the plant is not watered for 2 weeks. Cut the aloe leaves with a sharp knife at the base and put them in the refrigerator for 24 hours. Cooling increases the activity of aloe ingredients.

First, remove the skin from the leaves. For large leaves, it is worth cutting off the hardened edges and cutting the leaf into smaller pieces. Then peel off the skin and remove it with your fingers or carefully peel the leaf with a knife.

Cut the peeled leaves and place in a blender. Add 1-2 cups of fruit juice and mix everything together. If the juice is too sour, sweet or too thick, you can dilute it with water. Store aloe juice in the refrigerator for 1 week.

Aloe juice can be drunk or applied externally to the skin. Prepared aloe pulp without adding fruit juice works great as a skin care product. It can be applied to the face, body, head and hair. Aloe juice diluted with water will act as a tonic and can also be used as a hair rinse.

You can also rinse your mouth with aloe juice. Aloe drink, with citrus juice or water, you can consume 3 times a day for half a glass. Juice in its pure form, for example, the one you purchased as a finished product, can be taken about 50 ml every day, an hour before meals.

Don't confuse 100% aloe juice with aloe drinks, which contain about 30% aloe juice. When purchasing such a drink, you should check the composition and make sure that it does not contain, for example, artificial sweeteners.

Although aloe vera has many healthy and caring properties, there are some contraindications for its use. This:

• Diabetes. There is evidence that shows that aloe juice reduces the amount of sugar in the blood. Diabetics should consult a doctor before they start using aloe juice.
• Hemorrhoids, kidney and intestinal diseases. Latex found in aloe juice negatively affects the health of people suffering from these diseases.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding a baby.
• Parents giving aloe juice to their children should always consult their pediatrician.

Aloe (aloe vera), valued since ancient times, was called the “gift of Venus” by the Greeks, the “heavenly club” by the Indians, and the “plant of immortality” by the Egyptians. Its green, fleshy, waxy leaves are very popular today. The juices from them are used by housewives according to their needs, as well as by the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.

Anyone who chooses to grow indoor aloe not only gains access to a home decoration, but also access to a plant with medicinal properties that filters air pollution and humidifies it, producing oxygen at night.

Doctors recommend using agave-based medications in cases of anxiety and exhaustion. Aloe vera supports the fight against almost every disease due to the fact that it balances the body's biochemistry while stimulating its defense mechanisms.

Thus, aloe combines with the properties of a very nutritious food substance.

Use aloe vera and stay healthy!