Shazneen Mistry
www.mediaeyenews.com
During the lockdown due to the pandemic, it was seen that many people were taking guidance from age-old health practices and ayurvedic herbs to strengthen their immune system, which continues to remain at the forefront in our battle against Covid-19.
It was also seen that people had started taking care of their skin, hair, and health by using DIY face packs, or hair masks, and many other such tricks to take care of themself and not let the pandemic affect their hair, skin, or other related woes. The important point to note here is that a very common ingredient that was used in all of the remedies and is easily available at home was Aloe Vera.
Another name for Aloe Vera is Kathali. In the vast world of Ayurveda, leaves of the aloe plant are divided into three parts: an odorless and clear inner gel; a bitter yellowish sap known as latex; and a thick outer layer or rind.
The gel portion has been a wonder cure for sunburn, skin and hair woes, but there is so much more to this plant, in terms of overall health and well-being. Aloe vera is a magical plant and one of the super-foods that can help improve your overall health. It has prebiotic compounds that help feed healthy bacteria in the gut and helps in the optimal functioning of the digestive system.
It has vitamins, minerals, amino acids, salicylic acids, and anti-inflammatory characteristics that help in providing relief from diarrhea, constipation, bloating abdominal pain and cramps,”
From tackling digestive disorders to dental woes, experts help unravel some of the lesser-known benefits of aloe vera, a powerhouse of nutrients. They are as follows:
- Keeps sugar levels, cholesterol in check:
Aloe may help manage diabetes by improving glucose as well as insulin levels, due to the presence of photochemical such as lecithin. It can also lower the level of bad cholesterol and prevent artery blockage. It can be useful in managing type 2 diabetes.
- Curbs constipation:
Aloe vera has a gentle laxative effect and can relieve constipation, as anthraquinones speed up bowel movement. Aloe vera can also help reduce uncomfortable symptoms of heartburn or acid reflux, which occurs when stomach acid splashes up into the esophagus and causes burning in the chest.
- Speeds up healing of wounds, infections:
Aloe vera, when applied on wounds, promotes faster healing by increasing blood circulation to the affected area. Consuming two spoons of aloe vera juice a day is believed to help reduce the symptoms of candidiasis (a fungal infection very common in women) and prevent overgrowth, which can affect the whole body
- Locks freshness of fruits and vegetables:
Coating fruits and vegetables with aloe vera gel will help keep them fresh for longer. It also prevents the growth of harmful bacteria on these food items.
