Aloe vera
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a cactus-like succulent plant with a clear healing gel in the leaves. There are many species of Aloe vera but the most commonly used is Aloe Barbadensis. Aloe vera is also known as Kumari in Ayurveda. It has many medicinal properties helpful in improving various ailments. Ayurvedic properties of Aloe vera are explained in the below shloka:
कुमारी शीतला तिक्ता मधुरा भेदनी जये। गुल्मप्लीयकृदद्धि कफचरहरी हरेत ग्रन्ध्याग्निदग्यविस्फोटपित्तरक्तत्वगामयान्॥ चक्षुध्या विधवातघ्नी बलकारका वृष्या रसायनी॥
वातपित्तकृमिहर कुमारी कफसुमं गुरु। - कै.नि औषधि वर्ग (1639-1640)
Aloe vera is Sita (cold) in potency, Tikta(bitter) in taste, and Bhedan (laxative) in nature. It is helpful in improving liver function. It provides beneficial results in burning sensations and other skin problems. Regular use of Aloe vera is also good for the eyes. It helps improve immunity which helps the body fight infection. This is due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property. Aloe vera is also effective in Vata-Pitta-Kapha balancing and worm infestation.
One of the most effective uses of Aloe vera gel is to manage various skin problems like acne and blemishes. Aloe vera is also good for controlling dandruff and hair loss. Aloe vera juice when taken orally helps reduce constipation due to its laxative property. Aloe vera juice is also used to lose weight and manage diabetes.
It is advisable to avoid Aloe vera during pregnancy as it may increase uterine contractions which may lead to a miscarriage. In some cases, Aloe vera might cause stomach pain, diarrhea, and skin irritations[1][3].
कुमारी शीतला तिक्ता मधुरा भेदनी जये। गुल्मप्लीयकृदद्धि कफचरहरी हरेत ग्रन्ध्याग्निदग्यविस्फोटपित्तरक्तत्वगामयान्॥ चक्षुध्या विधवातघ्नी बलकारका वृष्या रसायनी॥
वातपित्तकृमिहर कुमारी कफसुमं गुरु। - कै.नि औषधि वर्ग (1639-1640)
Aloe vera is Sita (cold) in potency, Tikta(bitter) in taste, and Bhedan (laxative) in nature. It is helpful in improving liver function. It provides beneficial results in burning sensations and other skin problems. Regular use of Aloe vera is also good for the eyes. It helps improve immunity which helps the body fight infection. This is due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property. Aloe vera is also effective in Vata-Pitta-Kapha balancing and worm infestation.
One of the most effective uses of Aloe vera gel is to manage various skin problems like acne and blemishes. Aloe vera is also good for controlling dandruff and hair loss. Aloe vera juice when taken orally helps reduce constipation due to its laxative property. Aloe vera juice is also used to lose weight and manage diabetes.
It is advisable to avoid Aloe vera during pregnancy as it may increase uterine contractions which may lead to a miscarriage. In some cases, Aloe vera might cause stomach pain, diarrhea, and skin irritations[1][3].
What are the synonyms of Aloe vera?
Aloe barbadensis Mill., Ghritkumari, Gheekumari, Khorpad, Gheekwar, Musabhar, Machambar, Ghritakalmi, Indian Aloe, Eliyo, Eariyo, Musabhar, Elva, Karibola, Lolesara satva, Lovalsara, Lolesara, Musabbar, Siber, Chenninayakam, Korphad, Musabara, Kalasohaga, Mussabar, Alua, Kattazhi, Satthukkathazhai, Musambaram, Musabbar, Ailiva, Siber[14][15].
What is the source of Aloe vera?
Plant Based
Benefits of Aloe vera
Modern Science View
Aloe vera can control constipation because of its laxative property.
Aloe vera acts as a natural laxative because of the presence of anthraquinones. Anthraquinones speed up the bowel movement and help in the easy excretion of stool[1][2].
Tips:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it.
3. Drink it in on an empty stomach in the morning once a day.
4. You can also take 1 Aloe vera capsule two hours after taking food twice a day
5. Continue this for 2-3 months for better results[1][7].
Aloe vera acts as a natural laxative because of the presence of anthraquinones. Anthraquinones speed up the bowel movement and help in the easy excretion of stool[1][2].
Tips:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it.
3. Drink it in on an empty stomach in the morning once a day.
4. You can also take 1 Aloe vera capsule two hours after taking food twice a day
5. Continue this for 2-3 months for better results[1][7].
Ayurvedic View
Constipation is caused due to an aggravated Vata Dosha. This can be due to the frequent consumption of junk food, excess intake of coffee or tea, sleeping late at night, high-stress level and depression. All these factors aggravate Vata in the large intestine and cause constipation. Aloe vera helps manage constipation due to its Vata balancing and Bhedana (elimination of feces by breaking hard stools) properties. It helps eliminate hard stools smoothly and manage constipation.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera is good for weight loss by improving body metabolism. Although not enough studies are there, animal studies state that phytosterols present in Aloe vera reduce body weight[12][21].
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it.
3. Drink it in on an empty stomach in the morning once a day.
4. Continue this for 2-3 months for better results.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it.
3. Drink it in on an empty stomach in the morning once a day.
4. Continue this for 2-3 months for better results.
Ayurvedic View
An excess Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the body causes an increase in weight. Aloe vera can help manage weight by reducing Ama due to its property of Deepan (increase in the digestive fire).
Modern Science View
Aloe vera might help manage diabetes by improving blood glucose as well as insulin levels. This is due to the presence of phytochemicals such as lectins, mannans in Aloe vera. Some studies also suggest that Aloe vera might prevent cell damage such as ulcers, wounds, kidney damage associated with diabetes due to its antioxidant property[9][18][19][22].
Ayurvedic View
Diabetes, also known as Madhumeha is due to an aggravation of Vata and impaired digestion. Impaired digestion leads to an accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the pancreatic cells and impairs the function of insulin. Aloe vera helps remove Ama and controls aggravated Vata due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. This thus helps control high blood sugar level.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it.
3. Drink it on an empty stomach in the morning.
4. Continue this for 2-3 months for better results.
5. Consult the doctor if you are on anti-diabetes drugs.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it.
3. Drink it on an empty stomach in the morning.
4. Continue this for 2-3 months for better results.
5. Consult the doctor if you are on anti-diabetes drugs.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera might lower the level of bad cholesterol or low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and prevent artery blockage.
This is due to the presence of phytosterols, glucomannan, fructose and glucose that helps in maintaining cholesterol levels[10][11]. Aloe vera gel may help in lowering serum cholesterol, serum triglycerides, and serum phospholipids. It also prevents blockage in the arteries[20].
This is due to the presence of phytosterols, glucomannan, fructose and glucose that helps in maintaining cholesterol levels[10][11]. Aloe vera gel may help in lowering serum cholesterol, serum triglycerides, and serum phospholipids. It also prevents blockage in the arteries[20].
Ayurvedic View
High cholesterol is due to an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion at the tissue level produces excess waste products or Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This causes an accumulation of bad cholesterol and blockage in the blood vessels. Aloe vera helps in controlling high cholesterol because of its Ama reducing property. It also helps to remove blockage from the blood vessels by eliminating toxins.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it.
3. Drink it on an empty stomach in the morning.
4. Continue this for 2-3 months for better results.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it.
3. Drink it on an empty stomach in the morning.
4. Continue this for 2-3 months for better results.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera might help people with HIV by improving their immunity. Although there are no studies on human, animal studies suggest that Aloe vera might improve the immune system in HIV infected individuals by increasing the number of white blood cells[6].
Modern Science View
Aloe vera might be used as a complementary therapy in cancer treatment. Some studies suggest that Aloe vera gel might improve the immunity of cancer patients by increasing the number of white blood cells. It can also help minimize the side effects of chemotherapy[1].
Modern Science View
Aloe vera might help in alleviating depression. This is due to the presence of certain biochemical compounds such as flavonoids and amino acids[23].
Ayurvedic View
Depression is a state of low mood and aversion to activity that can affect a person's thoughts, behavior, feelings, and sense of well-being. In Ayurveda, Vata is responsible for the proper functioning of the nervous system and an aggravated Vata can be one of the causes of depression. Aloe vera has Vata balancing property and helps to control depression.
Modern Science View
Not enough scientific evidence is available to support the role of Aloe vera in case of inflammatory bowel disease.
Ayurvedic View
Ama is one of the causes for inflammatory bowel disease and Aloe vera might be good for IBD as it helps reduce Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. But it is advisable to use Aloe vera with caution because of its Rechana (laxative) effect.
How effective is Aloe vera?
Likely effective
Constipation, Obesity
Likely ineffective
HIV infection
Insufficient evidence
Cancer, Depression, Diabetes, High cholesterol, Inflammatory bowel disease
FAQs about Aloe vera benefits
Precautions when using Aloe vera
Advice from Experts
Important
Modern Science View
1. Prolong use of Aloe vera for laxative effects may induce diarrhea and cramping[24].
2. Aloe vera might prolong the bleeding time. Caution is advised in patients with bleeding disorders or taking drugs that may increase the risk of bleeding[3].
3. Avoid the intake of Aloe vera gel with Castor oil as it may cause diarrhea and dehydration[3].
2. Aloe vera might prolong the bleeding time. Caution is advised in patients with bleeding disorders or taking drugs that may increase the risk of bleeding[3].
3. Avoid the intake of Aloe vera gel with Castor oil as it may cause diarrhea and dehydration[3].
Ayurvedic View
1. Avoid Aloe vera during diarrhea because it can worsen the condition. This is due to its Rechana (laxative) property.
2. Take Aloe vera with caution during irritable bowel disease because of its Rechana (laxative) property.
2. Take Aloe vera with caution during irritable bowel disease because of its Rechana (laxative) property.
Allergy
Modern Science View
People who are allergic to garlic, onions or other plants of the family Liliaceae may also be allergic to Aloe vera. In such cases, consult a doctor before using Aloe vera[24].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Avoid Aloe vera if you are breastfeeding as it is found to be unsafe[3].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Aloe vera may lower the blood glucose levels. So it is generally advised to monitor the sugar levels regularly while taking Aloe vera along with other anti-diabetic drugs[3].
Patients with kidney disease
Important
Modern Science View
Aloe vera might cause low potassium levels and electrolyte imbalance. So it is generally advised to monitor the potassium levels while taking Aloe vera[3].
Pregnancy
Important
Modern Science View
Avoid Aloe vera during pregnancy as it may cause a miscarriage by increasing uterine contractions[1][3].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Stomach pain
2. Stomach cramps
3. Diarrhea
4. Blood in the urine
5. Low potassium levels in the blood
6. Muscle weakness[3]
2. Stomach cramps
3. Diarrhea
4. Blood in the urine
5. Low potassium levels in the blood
6. Muscle weakness[3]
Recommended Dosage of Aloe vera
- Aloe vera Capsule - 1 capsule twice a day or as directed by the doctor.
- Aloe vera Juice - 2-3 teaspoons in a day or as prescribed by the doctor.
- Aloe vera Leaf extract - 1-2 pinch in a day or as prescribed by the doctor.
- Aloe vera Pulp - 1/4-1/2 teaspoon a day or as prescribed by the doctor.
How to use Aloe vera
1. Aloe vera juice
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
b. Mix it with an equal quantity of water and drink immediately.
c. For better results, drink it preferably in the morning on an empty stomach.
2. Aloe vera capsule
a. Take 1 capsule of Aloe vera after meals or as prescribed by the doctor.
b. Follow this twice a day.
3. Aloe vera pulp
a. Remove the pulp from the inner side of fresh Aloe vera leaves.
b. Take about 1/4-1/2 teaspoon and add it to your favorite smoothie or fruit juice.
c. Blend well and drink it immediately preferably in your breakfast[16].
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
b. Mix it with an equal quantity of water and drink immediately.
c. For better results, drink it preferably in the morning on an empty stomach.
2. Aloe vera capsule
a. Take 1 capsule of Aloe vera after meals or as prescribed by the doctor.
b. Follow this twice a day.
3. Aloe vera pulp
a. Remove the pulp from the inner side of fresh Aloe vera leaves.
b. Take about 1/4-1/2 teaspoon and add it to your favorite smoothie or fruit juice.
c. Blend well and drink it immediately preferably in your breakfast[16].
Benefits of Aloe vera
Modern Science View
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory property which is effective in controlling acne and reducing the redness caused by it. The enzymes present in Aloe vera forms an antibacterial coating on the skin to protect it against acne-causing bacteria. Aloe vera also has hydrating properties and helps in moisturizing the skin.
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Aloe vera gel.
2. Mix it with 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder to make a paste.
3. Apply it all over the face.
4. Leave it for 30 minutes to let it dry.
5. Wash it off with normal plain water and pat dry.
6. Repeat this thrice a week for at least three months for better results.
7. In the case of dry skin, apply Aloe vera gel mixed with honey[5].
Tips:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Aloe vera gel.
2. Mix it with 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder to make a paste.
3. Apply it all over the face.
4. Leave it for 30 minutes to let it dry.
5. Wash it off with normal plain water and pat dry.
6. Repeat this thrice a week for at least three months for better results.
7. In the case of dry skin, apply Aloe vera gel mixed with honey[5].
Ayurvedic View
A Kapha-Pitta dosha skin type can be prone to acne and pimples. According to Ayurveda, an aggravation of Kapha increases sebum production which clogs the pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. An aggravation of Pitta also causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. Aloe vera balances especially aggravated Pitta and reduces inflammation because of its Ropan (healing) and Sita (cold) properties. Thus Aloe vera helps control acne.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera might be good for dandruff and reduce hair fall.
Studies suggest that Aloe vera can control dandruff and protect the scalp against diseases. This is due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties[6][27].
Studies suggest that Aloe vera can control dandruff and protect the scalp against diseases. This is due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties[6][27].
Ayurvedic View
According to Ayurveda, dandruff is a condition marked by flakes of dry skin on the scalp. This is due to an aggravated Vata and Pitta dosha. Aloe vera helps in balancing Vata and Pitta dosha and controls dandruff.
Tip:
1. Take 4-5 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Mix it with 1 teaspoon of Lemon juice and 2 teaspoons of Olive oil.
3. Massage your scalp and keep it for 30-35 minutes.
4. Use any mild shampoo to wash your hair.
5. Repeat this thrice a week for better results.
Tip:
1. Take 4-5 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Mix it with 1 teaspoon of Lemon juice and 2 teaspoons of Olive oil.
3. Massage your scalp and keep it for 30-35 minutes.
4. Use any mild shampoo to wash your hair.
5. Repeat this thrice a week for better results.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera helps in healing minor burns due to its soothing properties.
Some studies show that Aloe vera, when applied to the affected area can heal burns and reduce the pain associated with it due to its anti-inflammatory property. Aloe vera also has antibacterial property which prevents infection at the site of burn[6].
Some studies show that Aloe vera, when applied to the affected area can heal burns and reduce the pain associated with it due to its anti-inflammatory property. Aloe vera also has antibacterial property which prevents infection at the site of burn[6].
Ayurvedic View
Aloe vera reduces burning sensation and gives relief in burn due to its Ropan (healing) property and Sita (cold) nature.
Tip:
Take Aloe vera gel in the required amount and apply to the affected area to reduce the burning sensation.
Tip:
Take Aloe vera gel in the required amount and apply to the affected area to reduce the burning sensation.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera might be useful for managing the symptoms of psoriasis due to its soothing and healing properties. Regular application of Aloe vera might help in reducing skin rash and dryness associated with psoriasis[6].
Ayurvedic View
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation and buildup of dead cells on the skin which makes the skin dry and scaly. Aloe vera helps reduce inflammation and promotes healing due to its Sita (cold) and Ropan (healing) properties. It also reduces dryness and roughness of the skin because of its Snigdha (oily) and Picchila (sticky) property.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera might help in skin regeneration in case of minor wound due to its healing properties. Studies suggest that the presence of polysaccharides and growth hormones in Aloe vera increases collagen (helps in growth of tissue at the site of the wound) synthesis and accelerates the process of wound healing.
Another study said that Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties which reduces pain and the risk of infections at the site of wound[1][6].
Tip:
1. Apply Aloe vera gel directly on the affected area.
2. Repeat as many times as required until you do not get relief.
Another study said that Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties which reduces pain and the risk of infections at the site of wound[1][6].
Tip:
1. Apply Aloe vera gel directly on the affected area.
2. Repeat as many times as required until you do not get relief.
Ayurvedic View
Aloe vera helps in skin regeneration due to its Ropan (healing) property. This is attributed to its Guru (heaviness), Snigdha (oily) and Sita (cold) properties.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera might reduce the risk of infections in the mouth. This is due to its antibacterial property. Aloe vera might also prevent gum disease and maintain good oral health due to its anti-inflammatory and healing properties[8][13].
Tip:
1. Use Aloe vera based toothpaste or mouthwash twice a day for healthier gums and to keep mouth infections at bay.
2. Always consult a dentist before using Aloe vera in the gums.
Tip:
1. Use Aloe vera based toothpaste or mouthwash twice a day for healthier gums and to keep mouth infections at bay.
2. Always consult a dentist before using Aloe vera in the gums.
Ayurvedic View
Aloe vera might be good for preventing mouth infections and bleeding gums due to its Ropan (healing) property. You can use Aloe vera gel directly over the gums to stop bleeding immediately and prevent any kind of mouth infection.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera might be helpful for genital herpes in men due to its antiviral property. Aloe vera contains anthraquinone which inactivates the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and inhibits its growth without any significant side effects[26].
How effective is Aloe vera?
Likely effective
Acne, Burns, Genital herpes infection, Psoriasis
Insufficient evidence
Dandruff, Mouth infection, Skin regeneration
Precautions when using Aloe vera
Allergy
Modern Science View
Apply Aloe vera gel to a small area first to test for possible allergic reactions[15].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Skin irritation
2. Redness and burning
3. Skin rash[24].
2. Redness and burning
3. Skin rash[24].
Recommended Dosage of Aloe vera
- Aloe vera Gel - 1-2 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
- Aloe vera Juice - 2-3 teaspoons or as per your requirement.
How to use Aloe vera
1. Aloe vera gel
a. For face
i. Take 1-2 teaspoon Aloe vera gel or as per your requirement.
ii. Apply on the skin and massage well.
iii. Repeat this twice a day to repair, lighten and soothe your skin.
iv. Add honey to Aloe vera gel if you have dry skin.
b. For hair
i. Apply Aloe vera gel on the scalp and massage well.
ii. Keep it for one hour and wash it off with plain water.
iii. Repeat this thrice a week for healthy hair.
iv. Add 5-10 drops of Lemon juice to Aloe vera gel if you have dandruff.
2. Aloe vera juice
a. For face
i. Take 2-3 teaspoon Aloe vera juice or as per your requirement.
ii. Add honey to it and apply on the face.
iii. Wait for 10-15 minutes.
iv. Wash off with plain water and pat dry.
v. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week for better results.
b. For hair
i. Take 2-3 teaspoon Aloe vera juice or per your requirement.
ii. Add Coconut oil to it.
iii. Massage this mixture on your hair and scalp.
iv. Wait for 1-2 hours.
v. Wash your hair with a mild shampoo.
vi. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week for better results.
a. For face
i. Take 1-2 teaspoon Aloe vera gel or as per your requirement.
ii. Apply on the skin and massage well.
iii. Repeat this twice a day to repair, lighten and soothe your skin.
iv. Add honey to Aloe vera gel if you have dry skin.
b. For hair
i. Apply Aloe vera gel on the scalp and massage well.
ii. Keep it for one hour and wash it off with plain water.
iii. Repeat this thrice a week for healthy hair.
iv. Add 5-10 drops of Lemon juice to Aloe vera gel if you have dandruff.
2. Aloe vera juice
a. For face
i. Take 2-3 teaspoon Aloe vera juice or as per your requirement.
ii. Add honey to it and apply on the face.
iii. Wait for 10-15 minutes.
iv. Wash off with plain water and pat dry.
v. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week for better results.
b. For hair
i. Take 2-3 teaspoon Aloe vera juice or per your requirement.
ii. Add Coconut oil to it.
iii. Massage this mixture on your hair and scalp.
iv. Wait for 1-2 hours.
v. Wash your hair with a mild shampoo.
vi. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week for better results.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Yes, Aloe vera juice should be refrigerated in order to retain its freshness and increase its shelf life.
Modern Science View
It is best to use Aloe vera gel soon after it is extracted from the leaf. But, it can be stored in a clean and closed container in the refrigerator for 8-10 days.
Tips:
1. Add Lemon juice to Aloe vera gel to keep it fresh for a longer time.
2. Store Aloe vera gel in the freezer to last long.
3. Commercially available Aloe vera gel can be kept either in room temperature in a dry place away from heat.
Tips:
1. Add Lemon juice to Aloe vera gel to keep it fresh for a longer time.
2. Store Aloe vera gel in the freezer to last long.
3. Commercially available Aloe vera gel can be kept either in room temperature in a dry place away from heat.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera leaves should be stored in the refrigerator to prevent it from drying and losing its benefits.
Tip:
Wrap the leaves with a plastic sheet or store the leaves in sealable plastic bags and then refrigerate.
Tip:
Wrap the leaves with a plastic sheet or store the leaves in sealable plastic bags and then refrigerate.
Modern Science View
Yes, in some cases, Aloe vera gel may cause a stinging feeling, when first applied to the skin or to the wound, but the unpleasant feeling passes in 5-10 minutes.
Modern Science View
Yes, you can wash your face after applying the Aloe vera gel. But keeping Aloe vera gel on face overnight is beneficial for the skin. It helps to make the skin soft and hydrated.
Do remember to do a patch test before applying Aloe vera gel on the face as some people are found to be hypersensitive to Aloe vera.
Do remember to do a patch test before applying Aloe vera gel on the face as some people are found to be hypersensitive to Aloe vera.
Modern Science View
1. Take 1-2 teaspoon Aloe vera gel or as per your requirement.
2. Add 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice.
3. Mix well and apply on the face.
4. Keep for 10-15 minutes and wash your face with plain water.
5. You can also apply Aloe vera gel on your face and keep it overnight for acne scars.
2. Add 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice.
3. Mix well and apply on the face.
4. Keep for 10-15 minutes and wash your face with plain water.
5. You can also apply Aloe vera gel on your face and keep it overnight for acne scars.
Modern Science View
Yes, you can apply the Aloe vera gel and keep it overnight. This will make your skin supple and hydrated. But do remember to do a patch test before applying Aloe vera on your face for any allergic reactions.
Ayurvedic View
Both Aloe vera juice and gel have various health benefits and the use depends solely on the purpose. If you have gastric problems then Aloe vera juice is better because of its Rechana (laxative) property. Similarly, Aloe vera gel is a good choice if you are using externally for skin problems due to its Ropan (healing) nature.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera is available in various forms such as gel, juice, capsule, etc. For better results consume:
1. Aloe vera juice in the morning on an empty stomach.
2. Aloe vera gel in the morning on an empty stomach.
3. Aloe vera capsule after meals.
1. Aloe vera juice in the morning on an empty stomach.
2. Aloe vera gel in the morning on an empty stomach.
3. Aloe vera capsule after meals.
Modern Science View
Although it is good to drink Aloe vera juice, it is advisable to drink only in the recommended dosage and duration by consulting a doctor[3][24].
Ayurvedic View
You can drink Aloe vera juice for better digestion and for managing gastric problems. This is because it helps to improve liver function and helps to digest the food easily due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. Aloe vera also gives relief from constipation due to its laxative property.
Modern Science View
Yes, Aloe vera can help reduce pain and stiffness in case of osteoarthritis due to its anti-inflammatory property. It also acts as a preventive agent against the gastrointestinal irritant effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) prescribed in the case of osteoarthritis[28].
Ayurvedic View
Aloe vera is useful to manage pain, swelling and immobility in osteoarthritis. According to Ayurveda, osteoarthritis is known as Sandhivata and is due to an aggravation of Vata dosha. Aloe vera has Vata balancing property and thus gives relief from these symptoms. It also helps control the degeneration of the joints because of its Rasayana property.
Modern Science View
Yes, Aloe vera is good for hair growth. It promotes the growth of new hair follicles as well as helps in strengthening the existing ones by regulating blood supply to the roots of hair follicles. It further prevents hair loss by protecting the scalp from any disease[6].
Tip:
1. Take 1-2 tablespoon Aloe vera gel or as per your requirement in a bowl.
2. Apply this gel on the scalp and massage well for 5-10 minutes.
3. Keep for 30-40 minutes.
4. Rinse with plain water.
5. Repeat 1-2 times a week for effective results.
Tip:
1. Take 1-2 tablespoon Aloe vera gel or as per your requirement in a bowl.
2. Apply this gel on the scalp and massage well for 5-10 minutes.
3. Keep for 30-40 minutes.
4. Rinse with plain water.
5. Repeat 1-2 times a week for effective results.
Ayurvedic View
According to Ayurveda, hair fall is mainly due to an aggravated Vata dosha. Aloe vera controls hair fall by balancing Vata dosha. Aloe vera gel also reduces dryness of the scalp due to its Snigdha (oily) property. It makes the hair smoother, stronger, and shinier.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera can help manage stretch marks when applied regularly. Aloe vera gel reduces itching on the belly during pregnancy as well as prevent its progression. It boosts collagen production when applied topically and improve skin elasticity[6][17].
Tip:
1. Apply some Aloe vera gel to the affected skin area and massage well.
2. Keep it for some 15 minutes and wash off with plain water.
3. Apply this twice a day.
4. You can even use Aloe vera based creams.
5. Start this in the initial stages of pregnancy atleast around the 2nd trimester.
Tip:
1. Apply some Aloe vera gel to the affected skin area and massage well.
2. Keep it for some 15 minutes and wash off with plain water.
3. Apply this twice a day.
4. You can even use Aloe vera based creams.
5. Start this in the initial stages of pregnancy atleast around the 2nd trimester.
Ayurvedic View
Aloe vera might be good for managing stretch marks due to its Snigdha (oily) and Ropan (healing) properties. It also help prevent progression of stretch marks and recover the original skin texture.
Modern Science View
Yes, you can use Aloe vera gel in the mouth. Aloe vera has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and might help reduce mouth and gum related problems[8][6][13].
Ayurvedic View
According to Ayurveda, Aloe vera has Sita (cold) and Ropan (healing) properties. This helps manage mouth and gum related problems.
Tip:
Apply Aloe vera gel in the mouth 2-3 times a day for better results.
Tip:
Apply Aloe vera gel in the mouth 2-3 times a day for better results.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera is used as a part of acne treatment because of its healing properties. Aloe vera gel has anti-inflammatory property which is effective in controlling acne and reducing the redness caused by it. The enzymes present in the Aloe vera gel forms an antibacterial coating on the skin to protect it against acne-causing bacteria. Aloe vera also has hydrating properties and helps in moisturizing the skin[5]. Regular application of Aloe vera gel is also useful to reduce acne scars.
Tip:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoon Aloe vera gel or as per your requirement.
2. Mix it with 1/2 teaspoon of Turmeric powder to make a paste.
3. Apply it all over the face.
4. Leave it for 30 minutes.
5. Wash it off with normal plain water and pat dry.
6. Repeat this 2-3 times a week for betters results.
7. In case of dry skin apply Aloe vera gel with honey[5].
Tip:
1. Take 1-2 teaspoon Aloe vera gel or as per your requirement.
2. Mix it with 1/2 teaspoon of Turmeric powder to make a paste.
3. Apply it all over the face.
4. Leave it for 30 minutes.
5. Wash it off with normal plain water and pat dry.
6. Repeat this 2-3 times a week for betters results.
7. In case of dry skin apply Aloe vera gel with honey[5].
Ayurvedic View
A Kapha-Pitta dosha skin type can be prone to acne and pimples. According to Ayurveda, an aggravation of Kapha increases sebum production which clogs the pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. An aggravation of Pitta also causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. Aloe vera balances especially aggravated Pitta and reduce inflammation because of its Ropan (healing) and Sita(cold) properties. Thus Aloe vera helps control acne.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera gel is good for reducing sunburn. It helps reduce redness and burning sensation due to its anti-inflammatory property[6].
Tip:
1. Take 1 Aloe vera leaf.
2. Scoop the Aloe vera gel using a spoon and keep it in a bowl.
3. Place the bowl in a fridge and keep for 5-10 minutes.
4. Take out the Aloe vera gel from the fridge and apply all over the affected areas.
5. Wait for 30 minutes and wash off with cool water.
6. Repeat 1-2 times a day till you do not get complete relief.
Tip:
1. Take 1 Aloe vera leaf.
2. Scoop the Aloe vera gel using a spoon and keep it in a bowl.
3. Place the bowl in a fridge and keep for 5-10 minutes.
4. Take out the Aloe vera gel from the fridge and apply all over the affected areas.
5. Wait for 30 minutes and wash off with cool water.
6. Repeat 1-2 times a day till you do not get complete relief.
Modern Science View
Yes, you can apply Aloe vera gel directly to the face. But it is advisable to first do a patch test to check for possible allergic reactions[15].
References
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Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.