Aloe Vera: the plant elixir

L’Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) is an ancient medicinal plant that has been used around the world for its healing and regenerative properties for more than 5000 years. Whether to soothe the skin, support digestion, strengthen the immune system or regulate metabolism, this plant is full of valuable active ingredients. However, in order to reap the full benefit of it, it is important to ensure that this is the case Product quality : pure, undiluted and unpasteurized. In this article, we offer you a complete and comprehensive overview of aloe vera, based on the latest scientific data.

A unique composition: the active ingredients of aloe vera

The translucent gel in the leaves of aloe vera is more than 99% water. However, it is in the 1% left that its residents live key therapeutic benefits. This fraction contains an extraordinary wealth of natural active ingredients:

• Polysaccharidesincluding acemannan, a complex sugar known for its immune-stimulating, healing and anti-inflammatory properties.

• Phytosterolssuch as lophenol and cycloartanol, which play a role in regulating cholesterol and metabolism.

• Anthraquinonesincluding aloin (found in latex) and aloe-emodin, with laxative but also antimicrobial and antiviral effects.

• Enzymessuch as amylase, bradykinase and catalase, which aid digestion and reduce inflammation.

• Vitamins (A, C, E, B1, B2, B6, folic acid) and Minerals (calcium, magnesium, zinc, potassium, etc.), which are essential for the proper functioning of the body.

• Polyphenols and flavonoids, which enhance the plant’s general antioxidant effects.

This synergy of active ingredients explains the diverse effects of aloe vera, both when used externally and internally.

Scientifically proven benefits

A remarkable healing and anti-inflammatory effect

Aloe vera gel is often used to treat burns, cuts, stings, and various skin irritations. Clinical studies have shown that it accelerates healing by promoting tissue regeneration, especially thanks to acemannan, which stimulates collagen production and skin cell migration. In addition, the enzymes it contains, such as bradykinase, help reduce local inflammation.

A literature review published in Journal of Ethnopharmacology highlights the effectiveness of the gel in the treatment of second degree burns with a significant reduction in healing time compared to conventional treatment.

A powerful natural antioxidant

Thanks to its richness in polyphenols, vitamins C and E, and antioxidant enzymes (such as superoxide dismutase), aloe vera helps neutralize the free radicals responsible for premature aging and degenerative diseases. Studies show that regular consumption increases the antioxidant capacity of the plasma, thereby strengthening the body’s natural defenses.

Support for blood sugar and metabolism

Clinical studies in patients with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes have shown Significant reduction in fasting blood sugar and HbA1c after taking pure aloe vera gel for several weeks. The phytosterols and polysaccharides contained in the plant appear to have a direct effect on the metabolism of glucose and lipids.

A meta-analysis published in 2016 The Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics suggests that aloe vera could be an effective natural aid in the treatment of diabetes.

A digestive and calming effect

When used internally, aloe vera gel is known to relieve digestive disorders, including gastroesophageal reflux, hyperacidity, and intestinal irritation. It forms a protective layer on the digestive mucosa while regulating transit if this is the case latex free (Aloin), which has an excessively strong and possibly toxic laxative effect.

A comparative study showed that taking aloe vera syrup daily for 4 weeks was as effective as omeprazole in relieving symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, without the side effects associated with PPI medications.

Antiviral and antimicrobial effects

Certain aloe vera compounds, particularly aloesin and aloe-emodin, have shown interesting antiviral effects in the laboratory against herpes, flu and even certain coronaviruses. The gel is also naturally antibacterial and antifungal, which increases its effectiveness when applied to the skin.

The crucial importance of quality

Not all aloe vera gels are created equal. To take full advantage of its properties, it is important to choose a high quality product. Here’s why:

Choose a gel with a purity of more than 99% and no added water

Many industrial products contain large amounts of water, thickening gums or preservatives. This significantly dilutes the concentration of assets. Favor them certified gels with a high proportion of natural pulpideally from fresh leaves, without chemical treatment.

Avoid pasteurized or heated products

Heat destroys a large part of the enzymes and polysaccharides that are responsible for the beneficial effects of aloe vera. Prefer a cold-stabilized or lightly treated gel to ensure preservation of bioactive molecules.

Pay attention to the presence of latex (aloin)

The yellow latex beneath the bark contains aloin, an anthraquinone that is a severe irritant to the intestines and is classified by the WHO as a possible carcinogen (Group 2B). Make sure the gel you consume is correct without latexand therefore is only extracted from the heart of the leaf.

Precautions for use and contraindications

• Allergies : Perform a skin test (patch) before large-scale application, especially if you are allergic to latex or plants of the Asphodelaceae family.

• Laxative effect : If the product contains residual latex, diarrhea, cramps and electrolyte imbalances may occur, especially if consumed in excess.

• pregnancy : Avoid any form containing aloin (risk of uterine contraction).

• Drug interactions : Oral aloe may interact with antidiabetic drugs, diuretics, digoxin and anticoagulants.

Prolonged consumption of whole, unsalted leaves : classified as possibly carcinogenic from the IARC (WHO) – Category 2B

In conclusion

Aloe Vera is an exceptional plant that can act on multiple levels of natural health: skin, digestive system, immunity, metabolism… But to get the most out of it, it is important to choose a product high quality, pure, unpasteurized and aloin-free.

Chez NatflowWe recommend that you pay particular attention to the origin, concentration and processing method of the aloe vera you consume. Your health deserves the excellence of nature without compromise.

Sources:

• Vogler BK, Ernst E. (1999). Aloe vera: a systematic review of its clinical effectiveness. British Journal of General Practice.
• Hekmatpou D, et al. (2019). The effect of clinical studies with aloe vera on skin wound healing. Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine.
• Surjushe A, et al. (2008). Aloe Vera: A brief review. Indian Journal of Dermatology.
• Saini R, et al. (2010). Aloe Vera: A Plant of Therapy. Journal of Oral Health and Community Dentistry.
• Huseini HF, et al. (2012). The clinical effectiveness of aloe vera gel on glycemic control in prediabetics. Phytomedicine.
• Fored D, et al. (2016). Effectiveness of aloe vera gel in the treatment of prediabetes and diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics.
• Lin JY, et al. (2005). Antiviral effect of aloe-emodin on influenza A virus. Journal of Food Science.
• IARC Monographs (2015). Aloe Vera Whole Leaf Extract – Group 2B carcinogen. International Agency for Research on Cancer (WHO).
• Shelton RM. (1991). Aloe Vera: Its chemical and therapeutic properties. International Journal of Toxicology.
• Boudreau MD, Beland FA. (2006). Evaluation of the biological and toxicological properties of Aloe barbadensis (Aloe vera). Journal of Environmental Science and Health, Part C