Aloe Vera – Herbs
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera or otherwise called Aloes, Barbados aloe or Curacao aloe has been traditionally used as herbal medicine. It was found out that during 2100 BC it has been already utilized, as evidently written in a Mesopotamian clay tablet. It is useful as treatment for wounds, burns and other skin conditions. Aloe Vera is classified as an anti-inflammatory agent, laxative, general tonic, aphrodiasiac and anti-worm by ancient races such as Spaniards, Indians, Arabs, Greeks, and Romans.
It is believed that Alexander the Great, the most popular king of Macedonia, conquered an island in the Indian Ocean which has an abundance of Aloe Vera, in order to treat his much-loved soldiers. In today’s society, Aloe Vera is used to ease skin diseases and treat burns. It is integrated in many beauty and cosmetic products, proving very satisfying results.
The part that is usually used in Aloe Vera is its magical leaf, from which several health products are made, namely the juice, extract, gel and the exudates. The exudates are yellow-colored, tastes bitter and has thick residue, coming from the latex. It is made of 99% water and sugar as well. The gel is a clear gel produced by the central part of the leaf. It contains several well-known beneficial minerals such as sodium, iron, zinc, chromium, copper, magnesium, manganese, potassium, and calcium. It also contains sufficient amount of folic acid, niacin, thiamine, vitamins A, B12, C, and E. On the other hand, diluted aloe gel is otherwise known as aloe juice or Aloe Vera extract.
What are the health benefits of Aloe Vera?
Main Actions
- Antibacterial
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Anti-ulcer
- Antiviral
- Assist in faster wound healing
- Boost immune system
- Hypoglycemic
- Laxative
Known Uses
Although Aloe Vera products have many uses, the main usage is really to treat skin conditions. Aloe is used to heal wounds at a faster rate, treat burns, ulcers, genital herpes, frostbite and psoriasis. The healing action may be due to its anti-clotting, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
Most studies suggest that skin application of Aloe Vera gel is more effected in wound healing and effectively reduces bacteria. However, there are some negative studies, as it has been found that Aloe Vera gel composition varies, even within the same species. Composition mainly depends on the processing method used, including the region, climate, and source. Scientists also found out that Aloe Vera significantly reduced redness, dermatitis, wrinkling, irritation, dry skin and improved skin integrity.
Skin Conditions
- Burns
- Frostbite
- Genital Herpes
- HIV
- Psoriasis
- Radiation-induced dermatitis
- Ulcers
Gastrointestinal Conditions
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Ulcerative Colitis
Other Uses
- Asthma
- Cancer
- Diabetes
Dosage Range
- Aloe Vera gel: fresh from a living plant or as stabilized juice of 25 ml, which can be used up to four times a day.
- Extracts standardized to acemannan: each preparation should contain up to 800 mg/day.
- Topical application: gel, cream or ointment as required.
- 1.5–4.5 ml daily of 1:10 tincture of resin (latex).
Adverse Reaction
A 47-year old man claimed he was hypersensitive and was able to manifest contact dermatitis, generalized rashes and itchiness with 4 years intake of oral and topical Aloe Vera. On the other hand, patch tests for aloe also resulted same results.
Significant Interactions
Precaution should be considered when taking Aloe Vera with the following drugs.
- Hypoglycemic Agents
- Laxatives
- Topical Steroid Preparations
Contraindications and Precautions
- Caution with person with thyrotoxicosis
- Children: avoid strong laxative
- Depression and reduced T3 and T4 (thyroid hormones)
- Do not use for more than 2 weeks, as potassium can be depleted, which may possibly harm the heart
- Hypersensitive to Aloe
- Person suffering from nausea, vomiting, or other signs of GI obstruction
Pregnancy Use
- Strong laxative such as aloe latex are contraindicated.
* Known Benefits
- Aloe may be beneficial adjunct as treatment of chronic fatigue, cancer, HIV, and treatment of chronic poor immunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What benefits can I get from this herb?
- Aloe Vera has been proven to be very effective in treating wounds, burns, and other skin inflammation. However, the composition of Aloe Vera products may vary depending on processing factor and geographical location. It is also used as treatment for GI disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, gastrointestinal ulcer and dyspepsia.
When can I expect its full therapeutic action?
- Aloe has an immediate health effect on skin inflammation and burns. Improvement can be noticed after several days or week of usage, with satisfying results. However, chronic illnesses may require long-term use. But, if use as laxative, it can produce result in 12-24 hours only.
Are there any safety health issues that I need to consider?
- As what experts say, aloe gel is non-toxic and safe to use. However, avoid chronic use of laxative preparations containing highly irritant compound called anthraquinone glycosides, mostly found in the latex.
Learn About Hoodia Extract
Hoodia Extract
Have you tried all means of losing weight, but still failed? Don’t lose hope as we’re here to guide you to achieve the long awaited gorgeous and sexy body you’ve long waited for. Many people have claimed that Hoodia dietary supplement is a well-known magical dietary treatment that helps you achieve a successful diet plan easily. The secret behind this is the Hoodia Gordonii, a nutritious food that is perfect for reducing appetite.
Hoodia Gordonii is a South African succulent that is commonly mistaken as a cactus because of its prickly green appearance. Long ago, food and water are extremely scarce so natives use this Hoodia pack traditionally for long hunting trips on the African desert regions.
Africans believe that Hoodia is a powerful plant that can cure several diseases, including abdominal cramps, hypertension, tuberculosis, hemorrhoids, diabetes and indigestion. However, what makes it famous is its ability to reduce appetite and promote weight loss that has recently captured the attention of the public.
According to research, Hoodia Gordonii is hundred times more effective than glucose at decreasing food craving. Yes, it’s true! For instance, studies have been conducted to a group of overweight adults with affirmative results. Imagine in just two weeks of taking Hoodia dietary supplement, there was already a significant decrease in their daily calorie intake and body fat content compared to the placebo group. In fact, pharmaceutical companies are eager to produce artificial extracts of Hoodia and use them as weight loss drug.
Hoodia species are mostly found in South Africa desert regions. However, Hoodia Gordonii is the only proven appetite suppressant and the substance that is currently being used as a diet pill supplement. This supplement comes in different drug forms. They are widely available online or any health food stores in capsule, tincture, and liquid extract forms.
Exactly! The main ingredient in most appetite suppressant supplements is the Hoodia Gordonii. Just be careful when you buy this supplement, as there are many imitations already existing in our society. Also, don’t be overwhelmed of its cost as quality Hoodia Gordonii extract is not cheap. If you think its price sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. Buy now and experience the new you in just few weeks!
Learn About Creatine Supplements
Creatine Supplements
If you want to build muscles and decrease body fat easily, then you have to take Creatine Supplements, it is a nonessential amino acid that are frequently used by body builders and athletes nowadays. Not only that, other benefits that can be derive from this dietary supplement includes: increase endurance, strong heart muscles and can even cure different neuromuscular disorders.
Creatine is mainly produced in the kidneys and liver, and transported in the blood to the muscles tissue, where 95% of body’s Creatine is found. It is present in high-protein foods like meat, dairy products and fish. However, it would be difficult to get the exact amount required by the body to enhance endurance and muscle strength from the food we are taking daily.
Creatine is necessary since they’re responsible for producing what we call ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate), generating energy in muscle tissue. High level of Creatine can increase ATP levels as well as in the muscles, while boosting energy that is available during workouts.
In 1970s, it was noted that athletes primarily taking Creatine supplements was able to experience improve athletic performance. It has then become popular in 1990s among professional athletes; most especially when steroid became an illegal drug and were later on banned among participants. At present, approximately 25% of professional baseball players, up to 50% of football players and many athletic high-school students are taking Creatine supplement.
Creatine also is of great help to our heart. It lowers overall blood cholesterol and triglycerides level. Research has been conducted and found out that Creatine can actually treat conditions related with a weakened heart muscle (e.g. heart attack and congestive heart failure).
Creatine supplements are available in tablet, capsule, and powder forms. The recommended dosage is 20-25 grams daily for one week and 2-5 grams a day thereafter as maintenance. Studies have also shown that taking Creatine supplements along with carbohydrates can actually increase its absorption, so many energy drinks manufacturer are now using Creatine as an active ingredient with a promising result of increase body endurance and stamina.
However, Creatine can be damaging to the kidneys as it can cause fluid retention. Therefore, it is contraindicated to person with kidney failure. To prevent any complication associated with Creatine supplements, it is advisable to take one tablet every two weeks, just like what other professional athletes are doing. As long as appropriate dosage is taken, the risk of kidney disease can be lower.
