Aloe vera and it's benefits

Aloe vera

Synonym - aloe, musabbar, kumari

Biological Source - aloe vera is obtained from leaves of Aloe barbadensis Miller also known as Curacao aloes.

Family - Liliaceae

Aloe vera

Chemical Constituents - All varieties of aloes are a major source of anthraquinone glycosides. The principal  active a composition of Aloe is aloin, which is a mixture of glycosides, among which

Barbaloin is the chief constituent. It is chemically aloe-emodin anthrone C-10 glycosides and it is water soluble.

The drug also contains aloetic acid, homonataloin, aloesone, chrysophanic acid, chrysamminic acid, galacturonic acid, choline, choline salicylate, saponins, mucopolysaccharides, glucosamines, hexuronic acid coniferyl alcohol, etc.

Uses- Aloes is used as a purgative. its effect is mainly on the colon. It has a stronger purgative action in the series of all crude drugs with anthracene glycosidal content. To counter effect the gripping action, it is given with carminatives. Besides purgative property, aloes enjoy many other uses.

Aloe gel, formed in inner parenchymal cells of the leaf, is slightly viscous. During collection, it should not be contaminated.  The gel is used in topical therapeutic applications and also in many cosmetic products, but the therapeutic value. The gel possesses good moisturizing properties and also has a formulation role for oil in water (approved by U.S.F.D.A.) preparation.

 It shows anti-inflammatory properties due to the chemical contents like salicylates, carboxypeptidases (inactivating bradykinin) and magnesium lactate (interfering with the conversion of histidine to histamine in the mast cells). The polysaccharide and sugar content have the role of hydrocolloid dressing and also osmotic bactericides.

Aloe gel also increases the removal of dead tissue due to its Aloctine A content which stimulates macrophage production. It is believed that only fresh gel probably has a role in the treatment of burns and wounds.

It is also used in the treatment of pains and itchings and also to slow. down ulceration and keratosis, Aloe gel is used in skin cosmetics as a protective due to its anti-wrinkle properties. Aloe is also used Externally for painful inflammation.

Use as cosmetics -

• Aloe Vera is a miracle plant known for several health benefits
• It has antiviral and antibacterial properties.
• Aloe Vera can be used in the winter as well as summer months.
• Aloe Vera is rich in Vitamin C, E and beta carotene which gives it its nourishing and anti-aging qualities. It can moisturize the skin without making it greasy, which makes it a great buy for those with oily skin.
•  drinking aloe vera juice early in the morning on an empty stomach because it improves digestion and cures any kind of stomach trouble.