This cactus-like plant has been used medicinally for thousands of years. Its healing powers are referenced in notable texts like the bible and it was referred to as the “Plant of Immortality” by the ancient Egyptians who used it to maintain their health and beauty. Throughout its extensive use around the world, it has also been called the “miracle plant,” the “silent healer,” and the “elixir of longevity.” With such an incredible reputation that has lasted thousands of years, it’s hard to doubt the effectiveness of this amazing plant. Let’s take a closer look at the Aloe vera plant and the many, many ways in which it can provide us with healthy, beautiful, and youthful skin.
So, what exactly makes Aloe vera worthy of this hype? Surely it must have some sort of unique compound that makes it so incredible, right? Well although Aloe vera is incredible, it’s not because of some secret ingredient. Instead, it’s so amazing because it just has SO many different beneficial compounds: 75 different ones to be exact! Let’s take a look at some of the heavy hitters that make Aloe vera so incredible:
Vitamins
Aloe is packed with vitamins A, E, C, and B12. These vitamins are needed for a lot of different processes in our body and helping to maintain healthy skin is one of them. Some of these vitamins also work as antioxidants that fend off free radicals that can prematurely age our skin.
Enzymes
The plant also contains 8 different enzymes that break down sugars and fats in our body. This makes Aloe effective for aiding digestion when consumed. These enzymes are also useful for reducing inflammation both internally when eaten and externally when used topically.
Anthraquinones
Anthraquinones are plant-based compounds. Aloe vera contains 12 different ones that work as laxatives, antibacterials, antivirals, and pain relievers.
Hormones
Aloe vera also has two types of plant growth hormones called auxins and gibberellins. Although they’re normally meant to help the plant grow, they’re also effective for speeding up the healing process of wounds and for reducing inflammation in humans.
Minerals
Aloe vera has a high content of essential minerals that are necessary for many of the enzymes and cells in our body to function correctly. Some of them are also antioxidants which can help to slow down premature aging.
Fatty Acids
The plant contains four plant steroids that reduce inflammation, reduce pain, and have antiseptic properties.
Others
Aloe vera also has a few other miscellaneous compounds that are particularly effective in skin care.
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Salicylic Acid
- This acid is one of the most popular acne treating ingredients in the world due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
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Lignin
- This plant-based substance’s main purpose is to help plant cells keep their shape. However, it can also help other beneficial ingredients in a cosmetic product penetrate the skin more efficiently; increasing their effectiveness.
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Saponins
- This soapy substance found in the plant cleanses the skin when applied topically.
A Timeless Favorite
There’s truth to the old adage that “the strong endure.” Aloe vera is a very unique ingredient in the sense that it has a very, very long history. Its use in beauty and medicine has reached every corner of the world and lasted for thousands of years. Although this plant does sound too good to be true, you can lay your skepticism to rest. Not only does Aloe vera have thousands of years of support from all around the globe, but many of these ancient claims have been supported by science in recent years! Although there is no single ingredient that will give you the skin you dream of, you’d be crazy not to include Aloe vera on your list of must haves. The ancient claims like the “Plant of Immortality” and the “Fountain of Youth” may be a bit of a stretch, but this plant’s effectiveness may surprise you!
