How is aloe vera produced? Where does it come from, and what are its health benefits?
Aloe vera has been used by humans for millennia, but where does the plant originate and what are its health benefits?
Aloe vera is, according to dermatologist Juan García Gavín, from the Spanish Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, “a phytonutrient with 75 active ingredients,” with benefits for the skin. The plant can help to soothe, heal, sanitize, moisturize, and protect the skin.
To produce aloe, and use its nutritional properties, the plant must be grown harvested, and processed. When it is being processed, the plant must have its exterior cut off, leaving just the gelatinous congealed goo that can be sliced, blended, juiced, or manipulated in a dozen other ways.
What other health benefits are provided by aloe?
Aside from those for the body’s largest organ, aloe has other medicinal properties that have been used for thousands of Ancient Egypt to treat different health problems. Now, more and more people are promoting the digestive benefits of the plant, describing it as a superfood.
Health benefits of aloe vera
- Calories: 53 kcal
- Protein: 0.36g
- Carbohydrates: 12.8 g
- Fats: 0.12 gr
- Fiber: 0.2 gr
- Potassium: 130mg
One of the positive effects of food is that it helps to stop constipation and supports the digestion of other foods consumed while regulating intestinal transit.
It is a plant that is very rich in vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, potassium, sodium, phosphorus, calcium, zinc, iron, and copper. As for the vitamins contained, aloe holds, vitamin C, group B vitamins, vitamin E, and folic acid (B9). Another important aspect is that it contains a large amount of water in its composition and supports hydration. In addition, it has antioxidants, which delay cell aging and prevent the onset of diseases.
The use of the plant for its many benefits can be traced back to Ancient Egypt, who used aloe in mummification to precent the body from decomposing.
Benefits of aloe vera for the skin
It has great power as a moisturizer and repairer, which are two essential qualities against aging. It allows the skin to regenerate and heal faster and to reduce scar marks. The plant also contains polysaccharides that slow down the evaporation of water present in the skin, which it hot it helps to keep skin moisturized. Additionally, by stimulating skin fibroblasts, aloe delays aging, while also containing soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Benefits that are also used at a nutritional level, especially in juices, sauces, yogurts, and even as a food supplement.