The power of Aloe Vera
You've probably heard or read about the Aloe plant. Perhaps the most well-known species of this plant is Aloe Barbadensis Miller (Aloe Vera), which is best known for its beneficial and soothing properties. The leaves of the plant can grow as long as 60 centimeters and each leaf contains medicinal gel, also called Aloe Vera gel.
The healing qualities of Aloe Vera were discovered centuries ago and used by various cultures, from Romans to Egyptians. One of the oldest medical documents, a papyrus from around 1550 BC, already referred to the Aloe as a source for medical remedies.
Since then, it has been applied worldwide and used for medicine, cosmetics, health and animal care, among other things.
What is actually in Aloe Vera?
More than 3,500 studies have been published on the effects of Aloe since 1920. During these studies, over 200 active substances have been identified. Below you can read about some of the active substances in Aloe Vera:
- Vitamins E, C and Beta Carotene (vitamin A). These vitamins are important antioxidants
- Various minerals such as zinc, copper, calcium, sodium, iron and potassium
- Amino Acids: the basic elements of Protein. Of the 22 amino acids required by the human body, 20 are present in Aloe Vera
- Fatty acids: including linoleic, linolenic, myristine, capryline, olein, palmitine and stearine
- Moisturizing mono-/polysaccharides
- Enzymes: aid in the healing process
- Bacterial and anti-inflammatory substances
- Lupeol, salicylic acid and magnesium: analgesic
The power of Aloe Vera and your skin
Aloe Vera also helps nourish and improve the overall health and well-being of the skin. The gel is widely used for external skin treatments. Not only does it act as a caregiver, it also has the power to soothe and repair damaged skin. We list some of its many benefits for you:
- Nourishes and restores dry skin
- Reduces symptoms of skin irritations, such as itching, redness and acne
- Accelerates the healing process of minor sunburns and burns
- Repairs bruises and other minor damage to the skin
- Prevents scarring and reduces the visibility of scars
- Helps with insect bites
- Anti-aging properties
- Ensures proper moisture regulation in the skin
- Cares for the scalp and reduces dandruff and hair loss
- Has a positive effect on the treatment of psoriasis and eczema