Aloe vera, known as a miracle plant, has provided solutions for medical purposes for thousands of years. It’s an easy plant to care for in your home and is one of 500 different relative species of cacti. It’s a medical and cosmetic plant that has given many people solutions for skin and hair ailments.
But how much do you know about aloe vera? Let’s look at the origins of aloe vera and the numerous benefits it has brought to people. Before you know it, you’ll want to run out and buy aloe vera for yourself.
What Is Aloe Vera?
Aloe vera is a botanical plant known as the Aloe barbadensis miller, belonging to the Asphodelaceae family. It is a shrubby succulent with a pea-green color and grows mainly in India—specifically in Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, and other places.
It’s a triangular, fleshy leaf bundle with jagged edges composed of three layers. The innermost layer contains a gel made of 99 percent water and various vitamins, amino acids, lipids, and more. The middle layer consists of a bitter, yellow sap, along with glycosides and anthraquinones. Lastly, the outer layer provides 15 to 20 rind cells, which protect the plant.
The Origins of Aloe Vera
The origins of Aloe vera and its benefits have an extensive history spanning over 5,000 years, providing therapeutic remedies. In Egyptian times, it was regarded as an immortality plant, documented as pain relief and anti-inflammatory plant.
While it was sold in Middle Eastern markets, it found medicinal uses in China and Malaysia. In Greco-Roman times, people used it for healing wounds, boils, skin care, hair loss, and other healing properties. By 1968, aloe vera gel stability was made possible, allowing for global transport for medicinal and cosmetic purposes.
Aloe Vera Health Benefits
Most people know that aloe vera provides many health benefits for cosmetic and medicinal purposes. A couple of aloe vera skin care benefits include providing moisture and antibacterial properties. Additionally, aloe vera helps speed up wound recovery, soothes canker sores, and improves skin quality.
Aloe vera also provides benefits for the hair and body. It can prevent tooth decay and IBS, control hair grease, and help against skin itchiness.
Aloe vera is a unique plant to have in your home and provides many health benefits. Consider adding aloe vera to your skin care routine, hair care routine, or your diet to maximize the plant’s perks!
