Health benefits of Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera can actually be the panacea to countless problems, ranging from dermatological issues to stomach problems. read more to learn about this.

An Aloe Vera a day, keeps the doctor away!”

If you think that I have miserably gone wrong with the above mentioned aphorism, and I need to return to elementary school, then think again.Once I make you aware of the multiple boons that this serpent-like plant has to proffer, I am pretty sure you will condone me for tampering with your favourite childhood aphorism

growing aloe vera

Reasons to Grow Aloe Vera

  • Aloe Vera has occupied a favourable position in the group of herbal medicines, owing to its negligible side-effects. It works wonders, provided the aloin is eliminated from the plants, by the method of processing. The presence of aloin can be fatal for those who consume the sap of the Aloe Vera. This useful plant can be used to cure wounds, injuries and sunburns with its magical organic therapy.
  • The gel of Aloe Vera is used for providing relief against irritable bowel syndrome.
  • Aloe Vera is also employed in products such as makeup, tissues, moisturizer, soaps, sunscreens, incense, razors, and shampoos.
  • It has been concomitant with improved blood glucose levels in diabetes, and also with lower blood lipids in hyper lipidaemic patients.
  • Compounds extracted from Aloe Vera have been used as an immunostimulant that is known to fight cancers in dogs and cats. However, this has not been scientifically tested in humans.
  • Some other uses of extracts of Aloe Vera include the dilution of semen for artificial fertilization of sheep. It is also used as a fresh food preservative, as well as for water conservation in small farms.growing aloe vera

Despite securing wider recognition due to its therapeutic attributes, Aloe Vera has often been labelled as overrated. Studies have found that all the claims regarding the usefulness of Aloe Vera are exaggerated. In fact, it may be the cause of certain undesirable side effects.

The following are some of the allegations levelled against this succulent plant:

  • Aloe Vera juice is the repository of laxative compound which is found in the aloe latex, often a result of inappropriate processing. The overuse of latex can lead to electrolyte imbalance, along with laxative effects. This challenges the popular faith on the healing powers of Aloe Vera. Latex poses a heightened threat to one’s health by causing diarrhoea and internal cramps.
  • Consumption of latex by pregnant women might lead to uterine contractions, and even miscarriage.
  • Children and elderly individuals are advised against the consumption of latex as it may lead to potassium loss, if used during corticosteroids.
  • Individuals suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, gastrointestinal illness, intestinal obstruction, haemorrhoids, appendicitis, ulcers or stomach pain are discouraged from consuming the aloe latex.

Things to Remember while Growing Aloe Vera:

  • Aloe Vera exhibits proclivity for a well-drained soil. However, since the plant is succulent and contains sufficient water, the soil should be fertile and well drained, or else the plant might wither away. If you are planning to grow Aloe Vera, swear by a special cactus potting soil, or concoct a mixture of coarse sand. This succulence trait allows the plant to survive low rainfall with dignity, and to grow in slopes, rockeries and low-water use gardens. If you are planning to reduce the water usage in your garden and hence, looking for plants that will concede to your aspirations, then this ornamental species is the right choice.
  • Although the Aloe Vera is lauded for its drought-resistant qualities, never take it for granted. Always make sure to water the plant regularly, if you don’t intend to witness shrivelled and puckered leaves.
  • Aloe Vera is prone to rotting, as well as attracting army of ants and aphids to its centre. You can use organic fertilizers to deal with the pests.
  • Don’t forget to treat the Aloe Vera to fertilizers once a year, as it doesn’t demand a high fertility soil.

Don’t be worried about the ill-effects of the plant as there aren’t too many of them. Instead, start growing it as soon as possible.

Have a good time enjoying the benefits of the Aloe Vera!

Happy Gardening

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