For hundreds of years, aloe vera had been prized for its medicinal and cosmetic properties. So much so that it is even reputed that Cleopatra, the Egyptian queen noted for her beauty, depended on this plant for her soft and glowing skin and Alexander the Great decreed that it be carried in the battlefield to treat the wounded. Nowadays, aloe vera is widely used in skin care and cosmetic products while it can also be used as a home remedy, in the form of gel, juice and oil. The most potent is, of course, the aloe vera oil, which is either distilled or pressed from the plant. So, if you want a flawless skin, free from acne and other skin disorders then what better antidote than aloe vera oil? Aloe vera oil is rich in anti-inflammatory, astringent, emollient, antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties, which makes it an excellent remedy for most forms of skin ailments. Because of these properties, aloe vera oil is widely used in aromatherapy, not only to relax and soothe the body and mind, but also to provide the twin benefits of health and beauty, to the skin. Although there are a number of expensive creams and lotions, which contain aloe vera extracts, available in the market there is no guarantee that those would benefit the skin without any adverse effects. Thus, to be in the safer side, using natural products are always the best. If you are still unconvinced, then go through the article further to know more on this multipurpose plant and its oil.
Aloe Vera Oil Benefits, Uses And Properties
Aloe vera oil is of great value in Aromatherapy. Read about its uses, health benefits and properties.
Aloe Vera Oil
| Botanical Name: | Aloe barbadensis |
| Properties: | Anti inflammatory |
| Uses: | Aromatherapy, Medicinal Use |
- As early as 1500 B.C., the Egyptians used aloe vera plants for treating numerous ailments, such as infections, rashes, burns and so on. Aloe Vera had been widely used by the ancient Arabs, Greeks, and Spaniards, while on long hunting expeditions, to reduce the perspiration of the body and also to eliminate body odor. In fact, Spanish missionaries used to carry aloe vara with them to help the sick people.
- Aloe vera oil can be used to treat various skin ailments like eczema, psoriasis, ulcers, dermatitis, acne and also to stimulate cell regeneration, as it is an excellent softening agent. The various enzymes in aloe vera oil reduce the itching, swelling and inflammation. The oil and gel of aloe vera can also be used to treat wounds, burns, scalds and even sunburn, as the plant extract counters any bacterial infection while increasing the circulation, which speeds up the healing process.
- In aromatherapy, aloe vera oil is often used mixed with other carrier and essential oils to make the best of its healing and rejuvenating properties. Its astringent properties as well as the presence of vitamin E, C and zinc stimulate the epidermal growth and the skin repair process. Thus, an aloe vera oil massage will keep the skin free of cuts and rashes, and also nourish the skin. The oil soothes the skin, keeping it moist and prevents drying and flaking of the skin in dry weather.
- Aloe vera oil is also rich in anti-oxidant properties, which prevents skin damage from radiation. It also contains an ingredient called Aloe-emodin, which is very effective in eliminating the virus that causes cold sores and shingles. Because of this ingredient it can also be used as a laxative. Aloe vera contains vitamin E, keratin and panthenol, which makes it an excellent hair care agent. The oil not only acts as a conditioner for the hair but also strengthens the hair and cells of the scalp. Regular use also reduces hair fall and stimulates hair growth.