ALOE VERA

Aloe vera is a succulent plant resembling a cactus, known for the soothing gel found in its leaves. Among its numerous species, Aloe Barbadensis is the most frequently utilized. In Ayurvedic tradition, it is referred to as Kumari and is celebrated for its various medicinal benefits that assist in treating different health issues. The Ayurvedic characteristics of Aloe vera are described in the following verse:

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 characterized as having a cold potency (Sita), a bitter taste (Tikta), and a laxative nature (Bhedan). It supports liver function and alleviates burning sensations along with various skin conditions. Regular consumption can also be beneficial for eye health and may boost immunity, enhancing the body’s ability to fend off infections due to its rejuvenating (Rasayana) qualities. Additionally, it plays a role in balancing Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas and can help with intestinal worms.

One of the notable applications of Aloe vera gel is its effectiveness in treating skin issues such as acne and blemishes. It can also assist in managing dandruff and hair loss. Consuming Aloe vera juice can alleviate constipation due to its natural laxative effects. Furthermore, it is utilized for weight loss and diabetes management.

However, it is recommended that pregnant individuals avoid Aloe vera, as it may trigger uterine contractions, potentially leading to miscarriage. Some people might experience stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or skin irritations from its use.

Synonyms of Aloe vera: Aloe barbadensis Mill., Ghritkumari, Gheekumari, Khorpad, among others.

Source: Plant-based

Benefits for Constipation:

• Modern Science Perspective: Aloe vera’s laxative properties are attributed to the presence of anthraquinones, which stimulate bowel movements and facilitate stool elimination.

Tips for Use:

1. Mix 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice with the same amount of water.
2. Consume it on an empty stomach in the morning, once daily.
3. Alternatively, take one Aloe vera capsule two hours post-meal, twice a day.
4. Maintain this regimen for 2-3 months for optimal results.

Ayurvedic Perspective: Constipation often arises from aggravated Vata dosha, which can be triggered by poor dietary choices, excessive caffeine, irregular sleep, and high stress. Aloe vera helps balance Vata and supports the elimination of hard stools, providing relief from constipation.

What are the benefits of Aloe vera for Obesity?
scientificModern 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.
ayurvedicAyurvedic 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).

What are the benefits of Aloe vera for Diabetes?
scientificModern 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].

ayurvedicAyurvedic 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.

What are the benefits of Aloe vera for High cholesterol?

scientificModern 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].

ayurvedicAyurvedic 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.

Benefits of Aloe Vera for Constipation

Scientific Perspective: Aloe vera is effective in alleviating constipation thanks to its natural laxative properties. This effect is primarily attributed to anthraquinones, compounds found in Aloe vera that enhance bowel movements and facilitate easier stool passage.

Usage Tips:

1. Mix 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice with an equal amount of water.
2. Consume this mixture on an empty stomach each morning.
3. Alternatively, you can take one Aloe vera capsule two hours after meals, twice daily.
4. Maintain this routine for 2-3 months for optimal results.

Ayurvedic Perspective: In Ayurveda, constipation is often linked to an aggravated Vata dosha. Factors such as a diet high in junk food, excessive caffeine consumption, irregular sleep patterns, stress, and anxiety can worsen Vata in the digestive system, leading to constipation. Aloe vera helps to balance Vata and possesses Bhedana properties, which aid in breaking down hard stools and promoting smoother elimination.