Aloe vera gel is a substance that is extracted from the leaves of the plant of the same name, a succulent plant. It has a viscous, fresh and softening consistency.
The gel can be obtained directly from the leaves of the plant and is an effective natural remedy that can be used for both aesthetic and therapeutic purposes.
The use of aloe is very ancient, as evidenced by the cuneiform text on some clay tablets found in the late 19th century by a group of archaeologists in the Mesopotamian city of Nippur, near Baghdad, Iraq, and dating from around 2000 BC.
Aloe vera has multiple beneficial properties. Laxative properties: the components of aloe increase intestinal motility, promoting regularity. Anti-inflammatory properties: aloe vera gel inhibits the synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins and the formation of histamine and leukotrienes. Healing and re-epithelising properties: promotes wound healing due to its anti-inflammatory action. Antibacterial and antiviral properties: aloe-emodin can inhibit the growth of Helicobacter pylori and methicillin-resistant staphylococcus (MRSA), as well as having an antiviral action on several types of viruses. Antineoplastic properties: Some chemical constituents of aloe, such as aloe-emodin, show potential antitumour activities in laboratory studies.
Aloe gel extracted from the leaves of this plant is recommended to be used immediately after extraction. However, it is possible to store it for a short time by carefully placing it in a sterilised and tightly closed glass jar, to be kept in the refrigerator, but only for a few days.
Aloe vera gel can be used directly on the skin to treat wounds, abrasions, minor burns and infections. Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, it helps prevent infections, while its regenerating, healing and softening action stimulates cell growth and promotes skin regeneration.
Fresh aloe vera gel is an excellent natural ingredient to use to create a do-it-yourself pack to nourish fine or dry hair. You can blend the gel and apply it directly to damp hair, leaving it for about 15 minutes before shampooing. In addition, aloe vera can be useful in treating dandruff. Applying a spoonful of the gel on the scalp has an effective anti-dandruff effect. Massage gently and leave on for 30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly and washing your hair.
Aloe vera juice can be prepared at home by blending the gel extracted from the leaves of the plant, taking care to separate it from the yellow sap, which has strong laxative effects and should not be taken internally. Commercially available aloe vera juice products are obtained through a cold industrial process, which involves extracting the gel and turning it into juice. Drinking this juice appears to offer numerous benefits, including: it helps the body fight cellular ageing, strengthens the immune system, has an antibacterial action, promotes intestinal regularity and improves the general appearance of the skin.