Oh Aloe!

Oh Aloe!

Aloe vera is an amazing plant that has been used medicinally for thousands of years.  The Egyptians, more than 6,000 years ago, called aloe “the plant of immortality”.  It has been used to treat everything from sunburn to acne to digestive disorders, blood sugar imbalances, insomnia, infections, cancer and AIDS.  

Similar to a past feature, apple cider vinegar, aloe vera juice is an excellent general detoxifier for the entire system in that it is alkalizing and thus helps the body maintain a healthy pH.  Aloe also stimulates the metabolic rate which allows the body to burn more energy.   Aloe vera juice is rich with essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, E, folic acid, niacin, calcium, iron, manganese, copper, zinc and magnesium along with 18 different amino acids and 200 active plant compounds (phytonutrients).   It is also rich with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal polysaccharides which help prevent the onset of disease in the body and to fight viral, bacterial and fungal infections.

Taking the juice regularly can help you maintain good health, and if consumed regularly you may notice increased energy.  Aloe works wonders on the digestive system, as it balances inflammation through the entire GI tract, and helps to heal those who struggle with colitis, ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome, by dissolving built-up intestinal plaque and replicating healthy epithelial cells that coat our digestive pipes.  It relieves relieve indigestion, heartburn, acid reflux, bloating, flatulence, peptic ulcers and constipation.

The detoxification properties of the juice work in the blood stream as well as it helps dilate the capillaries and supports cell growth, it also helps with circulation. The juice is full of anti-oxidants which are found to be natural immune enhancers which help fight free radicals in our body.  It also stabilizes blood sugar and reduces triglycerides. 

For skin issues, rub organic Aloe Vera gel onto the affected area and leave it there as long as possible to take advantage of its strong antibacterial healing properties.  Aloe vera juice purifies the blood, and reverses collagen damage and wrinkles. It contains sulfur, which helps to restore elasticity and flexibility and it is also beneficial for healing skin burns and wounds.

How to choose: If you intend to drink aloe vera juice, always choose an organic, minimally processed product or grow your own.  I like Organic Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Juice.

How to use aloe: Drink 2 to 4 ounces (appr. 2 shots) on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. It may have a mild laxative effect, which helps to clear the intestine of toxins.

It's very important to know though that women who are pregnant or lactating should not be drinking the juice and children should drink it with caution.  As with everything suggested, before you start incorporating it to your daily routine, consult your doctor first about the possible side effects and allergic implications. In general though, almost everyone can enjoy the many health benefits of aloe vera.

 - Martha Rebour is a Certified Nutritional Consultant and a member of The American Association of Nutritional Consultants. She is also a Certified Health Coach by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners and graduated from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition.