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Aloe Vera is also more commonly called medicinal aloe. It is a desert plant that is native to Africa and has a succulent yellowish translucent substance in its fleshy leaves. There are various references to aloe in ancient cultures and traditions.
It has been used both internally and externally for its medicinal properties since time immemorial. The Egyptians are said to have used aloe both as a beauty treatment and for embalming bodies. Today, people have found even more uses for this almost magical plant.
You will be surprised to know the multitude of ways in which aloe vera is used today, from treating simple ailments like acne and indigestion to baldness and blood pressure. Also recent research has been very promising in the treatment of tuberculosis and manufacture of painkillers using Aloe Vera.
You can use aloe vera by using any products that contain aloe extracts, but the best way is to use fresh aloe gel or juice by topical application or by consuming it. In case you cannot get fresh aloe, you can buy aloe gel or juice, which is commercially available quite easily these days. Aloe Vera juice is obtained by mashing the succulent pulp in the aloe vera leaves. It can be used externally as an ointment, and helps in the healing of burns, boils and bruises. The astringent properties of Aloe Vera juice are also a sure-shot remedy for pimples and black heads. That is why aloe vera juice is finding increasing use in various cosmetic and beauty products. Aloe Vera juice can also be taken internally like any other fruit juice. It can be either diluted or consumed directly. It has been ascribed remarkable laxative and purgative properties when consumed in this way.
It also helps in treating the common cold and the cough. Aloe has also shown very good results in expelling worms from the stomach. Some independent studies have also suggested that regular consumption of aloe vera juice helps in preventing falling of hair and baldness, while some others attribute aphrodisiacal properties to it.
Aloe is usually safe, but care must be taken while consuming it as some people are allergic to it (a very small proportion of the population), and when consumed initially it may result in bouts of dysentery. In the event of any unwanted side-effects, you should see the doctor immediately. Also, Aloe Vera juice should be absolutely fresh when consumed, to avoid complications.
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