Herbs
ALOE VERA
20
Nov
Nov
- Aloe vera, or ghrita kumara in Sanskrit, is a member of the lily family and is very cactus-like in its characteristics. It is one to two feet tall, and its leaves are succulent — broad at the base and pointed at the tips, with spines along the edges. These fat leaves contain the clear healing gel that is 96% water. The other four percent contains 75 known substances including Vitamins A, B, C, and E; calcium; amino acids for protein building; and enzymes used in the digestive system.
- The healing and therapeutic properties of Aloe vera are well known and applied from centuries not just in Ayurveda, but also by the Egyptians, Greeks, Chinese and Romans. Due to its healing properties, the plant is also popularly known as the ’wonder. The gel present in its leaves is used for various purposes both internal & external. It is traditionally used to heal wounds, relieve itching and swelling, and is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
External application
- It is commonly used to treat skin conditions, heal wounds and improve baldness.
- It soothes skin conditions like mild cuts, bruises, insect stings and eczema (itchy inflammation of skin).
- It is used to heal dry skin problems and sunburns.
- Aloe Vera is also used in Ayurveda to nourish hair and deal with itchy scalp.
- It is also used to nourish the hair and deal with itchy scalp. Due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties it helps fight dandruff. The enzymes present in the gel eliminate the dead cells of the scalp, as well help the quick recovery of the skin tissue around the hair follicles.
- Aloe Vera gel is mixed with a carrier oil as it in self doesn’t produce oil. Coconut oil is usually used and the mix helps in hair growth.
