Constituents

The gel contains carbohydrate polymers, such as glucomannans or pectic acid, plus various other organic and inorganic compounds. The Aloe latex contains anthroquinones and anthrones. The minerals found in aloe Vera include calcium, sodium, iron, potassium, chromium, magnesium, manganese, copper, and zinc. What a powerful storehouse. The gel also includes Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C and E, Folic Acid and Niacin.

Average Analysis of Aloe Vera Gel Per 8 ounces (240 ml)

Medicinal Uses

• Aloe Vera is a fairly well known herbal preparation with a long history of use.
• It is widely used in modern herbal practice and is often available in proprietary herbal preparations. It has two distinct types of medicinal use.
• The clear gel contained within the leaf makes an excellent treatment for wounds, burns and other skin disorders, placing a protective coat over the affected area, speeding up the rate of healing and reducing the risk of infection. This action is in part due to the presence of aloectin B, which stimulates the immune system.
• The yellow sap at the base of the leaf, which is obtained by cutting the leaves transversally at their base is called bitter aloes and contains anthraquinones which are a useful digestive stimulant and a strong laxative.
• The anthroquinones and anthrones in the aloe latex probably produce their laxative effect by increasing colonic peristalsis and increasing the intestinal water content by opening chloride channels of the colonic membrane to cause a net reduction of liquid absorption by the colon.
• The anthroquinone glycosides reach the colon mostly undigested, although some are metabolized by enzymes produced by intestinal bacteria. The result includes more frequent stools with softer consistency.
• In most of the studies on the laxative effects of aloe, the aloe was not used alone but in combination with other laxatives, such as celandin or psyllium. Aloe's side effects can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and electrolyte imbalances, especially at higher doses.
• Some Aloe species have also been used for human consumption. For example, drinks made from or containing chunks of aloe pulp are popular in Asia as commercial beverages and as a tea additive; this is notably true in Korea.
• Aloe Vera gel is also very helpful in dental hygiene, immunity system; it enhances fibroblast function, produce and maintains healthy skin.
• It is also very helpful in maintaining your health by replishing the essential Amino acids. Some amino acids which are essential and cannot be made by the body are found within the aloe plant.