The use of aloe vera is nothing new. Either you’ve slathered it on your tomato-red sunburn or you’ve had it in a refreshing drink.
But aloe vera’s benefits go far beyond soothing burns and quenching your thirst… The aloe vera plant is one of the oldest mentioned plants on record. Ancient Chinese and Egyptians used aloe vera to treat a multitude of ailments, and have praised it for its medicinal properties.
Today, aloe vera can be found in gels, soaps, and even capsules. But what makes this hydrating succulent so popular? Keep reading to learn about the many benefits of aloe vera!
Aloe Vera: What's on the inside that counts
Have you ever sliced an aloe leaf open? If you have, you’ve noticed the slimy, water-filled tissue inside each leaf. It’s this “gel” that contains the most beneficial compounds in the plant, including antioxidants, enzymes, and vitamins A and C.
Not only is aloe vera known for improving skin texture, but this hydrating plant is a powerful anti-inflammatory, and contains antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties.
Top 3 aloe vera benefits
1. Aloe Vera can boost hydration
Dry skin? Say ‘aloe’ to aloe vera! Because aloe vera gel is mostly water, it can increase hydration and improve the texture of your skin.
Aloe vera contains mucopolysaccharides (sugar molecules) which help your skin retain moisture. Whether applied topically or consumed, aloe vera has been shown to boost the water content of the outer layer of the skin – making it a great remedy for eczema, or dry, winter skin.
According to the Baylor College of Medicine, the natural enzymes found in aloe vera can be used as a natural exfoliator and treatment for dandruff.
2. Aloe Vera can help with acne
Hormonal acne? Stress-induced breakout? I get it, there’s nothing more frustrating than a pesky pimple. Luckily, aloe vera can help!
Aloe’s acne-busting powers are due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Several studies have shown that it’s effective at treating acne and clearing blackheads and whiteheads. (Think of it as nature’s salicylic acid!)
Aloe vera can also help with the redness and scarring that often accompanies acne, thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects.
3. Aloe Vera can promote skin elasticity
Fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging. These natural signs of aging are the result of a decrease in collagen production. But research shows that aloe vera can actually stimulate collagen production, and promote a youthful appearance.
In one study, scientists tested the effects of aloe vera gel supplements on thirty healthy, female subjects over the age of 45. Facial wrinkles, facial elasticity, and skin samples were taken before and after the 90-day study.
Scientists found that aloe vera significantly reduced wrinkles and fine lines, and improved elasticity among the test subjects. Pretty impressive, right? But that’s not all…
Aloe’s antioxidant properties help combat free radicals, such as UV rays, pollutants, and other skin-damaging compounds. Talk about looking at the bright side!
How to use Aloe Vera
Want the beauty-boosting benefits of aloe vera? Whether you’re applying it topically or enjoying it in a drink – taking aloe vera daily can really improve the health and appearance of your skin.
And when you combine it with nutrient-rich superfoods (like those found in our Plant Collagen mix) you get even more benefits. We use dehydrated inner-leaf aloe vera powder in our collagen-boosting mix. (Which is completely safe and edible!) This plant-based blend combines 6 skin-supporting superfoods to help boost collagen production, improve elasticity, and promote smoother, more hydrated skin.
Are you ready to nourish your skin from within?
