Aloe vera, or aloe, is a succulent plant that contains gel and latex. Used in herbal medicine and cosmetics, they have many benefits for the skin: sunburn, acne, herpes … provided you know how to use them. Instructions for use and precautions for this natural remedy to avoid nasty reactions.
The aloe or aloe barbadensis are botanical names of Aloe , a succulent plant after hot and dry regions of the globe. It seems to come from the Middle East or Egypt, and it was the Egyptians who used it for laxative purposes. However, it is important to differentiate between:
translucent aloe vera gel (the mucilage) extracted from the inside of the leaves,
and the yellow juice or latex from the leaf wall. Very bitter, it hardens in air and is soluble in alcohol.
What are the benefits of aloe vera?
Against sunburn : in case of sunburn of 1st or 2nd degree, the application of pure aloe vera is useful to soothe the burn and accelerate healing. Several times a day until recovery.
Against acne : the healing, hydrating, anti-inflammatory and regenerating skin effect of aloe vera recommends it when applied to cleansed face in the morning and / or evening before the cream or vegetable oil.
For dry hair : aloe vera gel used as a poultice on the hair is fortifying. It is effective in the event of inflammation of the scalp. Mix 2 to 3 tablespoons of gel with 1 tablespoon of honey. Coat the hair with the mixture and leave to act for 1 to 3 hours before shampooing.
Against redness : aloe vera gel is moisturizing. As a mask on the face, neck and décolleté, it relieves redness and moisturizes. Apply generously and leave on for 20 minutes before rinsing.
Against genital herpes : aloe vera gel may be effective in relieving lesions caused by this viral infection. Thanks to its healing and anti-inflammatory effects for the skin and mucous membranes, aloe vera creates a protective film and activates cell regeneration. It may be interesting to use it in addition to an allopathic treatment, recommends the naturopath.
Against psoriasis : Applying aloe vera gel to mild to moderate psoriasis lesions reduces their severity and appears to improve the comfort of people with psoriasis.
Against lichen planus: this autoimmune disease manifests itself by lesions on the skin and mucous membranes. Applying aloe vera gel to the injured areas helps reduce symptoms. Aloe vera gel can be used as a mouthwash 3 times a day to relieve oral lesions.
How to use aloe vera gel?
The aloe vera gel, pale green or even colorless in color, contains tannins, and is rich in 12 vitamins (A, B, C, E), 20 minerals and 18 amino acids, enzymes and polysaccharides (carbohydrates natural) , or a real nutritious cocktail! It is known for its moisturizing, healing and softening properties. In local application directly to the skin, aloe vera gel relieves skin lesions : eczema, sunburn, burns, shallow cuts, inflammation.It is also suitable for mucous membranes in cases of genital herpes. In cosmetics, aloe vera pulp is used in hair products and creams for the face and body for hydration purposes. Aloe vera gel is also edible: cold extracted, it is diluted in drinks intended to relieve digestive disorders.
