Aloe Vera

What is Aloe Vera?

There is probably no herbal supplement that is as advertised as Aloe Vera. Aloe Vera is a herbal medicine used in skin ointments and creams to treat wounds, burns, or other skin problems. It is also used to treat genital herpes which is an infection spread by having sex. Aloe may be used to treat ulcers, nausea (upset stomach), or constipation (hard bowel movements).

Aloe Vera contains protein, calcium, magnesium, zinc, vitamins A, B12 and E, essential fatty acids and is naturally rich in:

• Vitamin C which helps maintain tone of blood vessels and promotes good circulation and is essential to the health of the adrenal gland which supports our body in times of stress.
• Amino acids which are chains of atoms constructing protein in our body.
• Enzymes, which are the life-principle in every live, organic atom and molecule of natural raw food, rejuvenate aged tissues and promote healthy skin.
• Germanium which is a mineral that some health authorities claim therapeutic benefits for: immunodeficiency, pain, cardiac disorders, circulatory disturbances and eye problems.

Animal studies and anecdotal reports claim that drinking Aloe Vera juice or taking it as a tablet or capsule can reduce swelling and inflammation in arthritic joints. Drinking Aloe Vera juice may also help those asthmatic patients who are not dependent on cortico-steroids.

Side Effects and Warnings of Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a very commonly used ingredient in most diet supplements and even skin care products. It is not without side effects and you should stop taking your medicine or supplement right away and talk to your doctor if you have any of the following side effects.

• Breathing problems or tightness in your throat or chest
• Chest pain
• Skin hives, rash, or itchy or swollen skin

You should also check with your doctor is you have the following very rare side effects:

• Fever, chills, or low back pain
• Headache, tiredness, painful urination
• Itching, redness, pain, or a rash when aloe gel is used on the skin
• Large amount of watery or bloody diarrhea (loose stools)
• Muscle weakness
• Nausea, vomiting, belly pain, or diarrhea if you take aloe by mouth
• Weight loss

Though this list seems very long, Aloe Vera is relatively safe. You should consult your doctor since it could be a reaction of drug interactions with this product. It is very hard to miss this ingredient in premium skin care products.

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