How Can Aloe Vera Be Used?

You've probably seen the aloe vera plant in the grocery store, or received it as a gift and wondered how can aloe vera be used.  Perhaps you've seen the aloe vera gel sold in bottles at your drug store, or spotted aloe vera juice and became curious of their benefits. Aloe vera has several beneficial internal and external uses for our bodies. It's a useful plant or product to have around.. Here are a few ways Aloe Vera can be used.

1. Skin Care - The gel found inside the aloe vera plant can be rubbed on irritated skin due to hives or allergic reactions. It has a cooling effect that is very soothing to the skin. It can also be rubbed on the face as a moisturizer and could help clear the skin and thwart off breakouts. Consuming aloe vera gel can also help you attain clear glowing skin from the inside out. Aloe Vera is also sold in juice form if the thought of consuming the gel extracted from the plant grosses you out.
2. Hair Care- Aloe aera gel can be used as an alternative to hair gel. In fact, aloe vera is very beneficial to the health of hair due to its’ moisturizing properties. It can also be applied to the scalp to help with scalp issues. Consumption of aloe vera is also known to help with growth and the overall health of your hair from the inside out.
3. Internal Health- Taken internally, aloe vera gel or juice can help with digestion. It has a bit of a laxative effect so be careful not to drink too much. It's known to have anti-aging properties when taken regularly and is also noted to help aid in immune system health.
4. Tips for using the plant - Cut a leaf from the outside first as these should be the most mature and potent of the plant. To extract the gel, take a knife and thinly slice off the flat side of the leaf. Take a spoon to scrape the gel out. You should store any left over gel after a use covered and in the refrigerator. It should be good to use for several weeks before it loses its’ potency.

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 Aloe Vera