Aloe Vera or Agave - which is more useful and necessary? Aloe vera: medicinal properties and contraindications.

In many apartments you can now find these ornamental plants. But not everyone knows that aloe vera plants are not only beautiful, but also useful. Aloe has been used for healing since ancient times. various diseases. However, there are many nuances in phytotherapy. Therefore, it is worthwhile to figure out what diseases the plant treats, how to use it, what properties and contraindications it has. It should be remembered that aloe also contains toxic and harmful compounds, so use healing properties plants can only be complete information about him.

Description

Aloe is a genus of flowering plants in the Xanthorrheaceae family, with about 500 species. Most representatives of the genus are succulents that grow in arid regions of the tropical belt and have mechanisms for conserving water. At the same time, plants are distinguished by their love of light and heat. Aloe is very diverse in size. It can be trees 10 m high, and small plants. characteristic feature representatives of the genus - thick xiphoid leaves extending in all directions from the trunk, usually covered with a whitish bloom and equipped with spikes along the edges. In nature, the leaves of the plant just serve to accumulate moisture. For medicinal purposes, it is also mainly the leaves that are used, sometimes parts of the stem.

What is the difference between aloe and aloe vera and what is the difference between agave and aloe?

In medicine, no more than a dozen species of the genus Aloe are used. Of these, two are best known for their medicinal properties - this is aloe vera or real aloe and tree-like aloe or agave. Thus, aloe is the name of a plant genus, and agave and aloe vera are called certain types. Although in everyday life both of these plants are often referred to simply as aloe, which can cause confusion, since it is not clear which plant is being referred to.

The medicinal properties of both species are similar, but have some differences. Aloe arborescens is believed to be more beneficial for healing skin diseases, wounds and cuts, and in aloe vera, the healing properties are more pronounced when used internally.

Aloe vera

The plant is native to Northeast Africa. It is a little over half a meter in height and has fleshy, slightly bluish leaves growing from the bottom of the stem.

Now aloe grows wild in different regions in the Canary Islands, North Africa. Also, the plant can be found on the Arabian Peninsula. Even the very word "aloe" - Arabic origin. It means "bitter" because the leaves of the plant contain bitter-tasting substances.

The plant can also be grown at home. It takes root well in the apartment, but rarely blooms.

Agave

It grows mainly in South Africa - Mozambique and Zimbabwe. The extract of the plant was used by the ancient Egyptians to embalm mummies. The plant looks like a small tree or shrub 2-5 m tall. Fleshy leaves grow at the top of the trunk. The inflorescence has the form of a long brush with bright orange flowers.

Also can be used as home plant. However, home grown specimens are significantly smaller than their wild counterparts.

The chemical composition of the leaves

Aloe is a unique plant. By the number of active biological substances contained in it (approximately 250), it has no equal among the representatives of the flora.

The main component of the leaves of the plant is water (97%).

Also in the leaves you can find:

• Esters
• Essential oils
• Simple organic acids (malic, citric, cinnamic, succinic and others)
• Phytoncides
• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• resins
• Vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B9, C, E)
• beta carotene
• Amino acids (including glycine, glutamic and aspartic acids, essential amino acids)
• Polysaccharides (glucomannans and acemannan)
• Monosaccharides (glucose and fructose)
• Anthraglycosides
• Anthraquinone
• Allantoin
• Trace elements - selenium, calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, manganese, phosphorus, zinc, copper and others
• Alkaloids, including aloins

Application

Aloe are known primarily as ornamental plants with an unusual appearance. Meanwhile, the healing properties of aloe became known several millennia ago. Various parts of the plant were successfully used by Egyptian priests and ancient doctors. modern science confirms its healing properties. They are explained by a unique complex of vitamins, microelements, amino acids and other compounds that have a beneficial effect on various systems of the human body.

But even when grown as a houseplant, aloe can bring medicinal benefit because it refreshes the air and enriches it with phytoncides. In addition to medicine, the plant extract is widely used in cosmetics and perfumery. Juice and pulp are used for cooking.

Medical use

As a rule, juice obtained from the fleshy leaves or the outer parts of the stem (sapwood) is used in medicine. Both fresh juice and evaporated (sabur) can be used. Juice is obtained by collecting it from freshly cut leaves. It is also possible to obtain juice using a press. Aloe flower, despite its beauty, has no medical use.

Photo: Trum Ronnarong/Shutterstock.com

Fresh juice and sabur are the most useful species drugs. Their high effect is due to the complex effect on the body. various connections. Individual components plants that can be found in various pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, due to the use of preservatives, do not have such a high effect.

In addition, aloe oil is widely used in medicine and cosmetics. It is also prepared from the leaves. In traditional and folk medicine, such dosage forms as syrup, gel, ointment and liquid extract. In some cases, the extract can be administered intramuscularly by injection.

What does aloe treat?

Plant components have a positive effect on the following systems and organs of the human body:

• the cardiovascular system
• gastrointestinal tract
• the immune system
• nervous system
• eyes

Also plant components:

• Have antifungal and antiviral activity
• Removes toxins and waste from the body
• Increase the overall tone of the body
• Restore intestinal microflora
• Lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels
• Accelerate hair growth and prevent hair loss
• Improve blood circulation
• Help with allergic diseases
• Relieve muscle, joint and toothaches
• Used in dentistry for the treatment of stomatitis, gingivitis and plaque
• They are used as a prophylactic against oncological diseases and as an auxiliary in their therapy.
• Possess antioxidant, diuretic and laxative properties
• Used to treat respiratory diseases (tuberculosis, bronchial asthma, pneumonia)
• They are used in gynecology in the treatment of diseases such as candidiasis, vaginosis, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, genital herpes

Aloe juice has a powerful bactericidal effect. It is active against:

• staphylococci
• streptococci
• dysenteric bacillus
• typhoid bacillus
• diphtheria bacillus

Different pulp compounds are responsible for improved performance various systems organism. So, for example, the anti-inflammatory effect of the plant is explained by the presence of salicylic acid in it, the laxative - anthraquinone and aloins, the choleretic effect - zinc and selenium, etc.

Application in gastroenterology

Sabur improves intestinal motility. It can be used as a laxative and choleretic agent, as well as a means to improve digestion. In addition, preparations derived from the plant are used for:

• gastritis
• Enterocolitis
• gastroenteritis
• ulcerative colitis
• Ulcer of the stomach and duodenum

Application in dermatology

The plant is most beneficial in the treatment of skin diseases. Oil is best for skin application. The oil has bactericidal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and wound-healing properties and is used to treat various dermatitis, rashes, psoriasis, urticaria, eczema, acne, bedsores, burns, wounds.

Application in ophthalmology

Aloe juice can be used to treat various ophthalmic diseases - conjunctivitis, inflammation of the mucous membrane, progressive myopia and even cataracts. The healing properties of aloe for the eyes are explained by the presence in the plant of an extensive complex of vitamins, primarily vitamin A. The components contained in the juice improve the blood supply to the retina and tissues surrounding the eyes.

Photo: Ruslan Guzov / Shutterstock.com

Application for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases

The beneficial effect of plant components on the cardiovascular system is primarily due to enzymes that reduce the amount of bad cholesterol and sugar in the blood and prevent the formation of blood clots. Studies have shown that daily intake of juice of 10-20 ml can reduce general level cholesterol by 15% within a few months. Studies also show that the gel of the plant can reduce the risk of coronary disease.

Contraindications

Internal intake of drugs from the plant is contraindicated in:

• Exacerbation of gastrointestinal diseases
• Individual intolerance
• Severe hypertension and severe pathologies of the cardiovascular system
• Bleeding - hemorrhoidal, uterine, menstruation
• Hepatitis A
• Cholecystitis
• jade
• cystitis
• hemorrhoids
• Under 3 years old
• Pregnancy

Ointments and oils used for wound healing and in dermatology have fewer contraindications. In particular, they can be used by pregnant women. For the treatment of children, ointments can be used from the age of one year.

Treatment of children under 12 years of age with internal means is recommended only after consultation with a pediatrician. With caution prescribe drugs from aloe to the elderly. During lactation, the use of internal drugs is also not recommended.

Side effects

Most of the compounds contained in the plant have a positive effect on the human body. However, there are exceptions to this rule.

When using the extract, it should be remembered that the skin of the leaves contains bitter substances. But bitterness in itself is far from their main drawback. Modern research suggest that the bittering alkaloid aloin is carcinogenic. Although aloin in small concentrations and occasional use is most likely not dangerous (moreover, it is used in aloe-based laxative preparations, and is also used as a food supplement), but still, when preparing juice from leaves, it is recommended to carefully clean them from skins.

The plant also contains special enzymes - antaglycosides. In overdose, they can lead to bleeding and miscarriages in pregnant women.

With the internal intake of juice, violations of the digestive tract are possible - dyspepsia, heartburn, diarrhea, abdominal pain. Occasionally, there may be blood in the urine, heart rhythm disturbances, muscle weakness. It is not recommended to take plant preparations immediately before bedtime, as this can cause insomnia.

Application at home

Of course, for treatment, you can buy various preparations at the pharmacy that contain plant components. However, it is most effective to use fresh aloe juice. It can be prepared from plants grown at home on your own.

cultivation

The plant does not require much care. Since it is adapted to an arid climate, it can do without frequent watering. It is enough to do this 1-2 times a week, in winter - once a month. However, it is worth considering that the plant loves heat and sun, so for him better fit a well-heated and lit place. In winter, the plant must be protected from cold and drafts. The easiest way to propagate a plant is with the help of apical shoots, cuttings and shoots that grow at the base of the shoots.

Most suitable for cutting big leaves with a dried top, located at the bottom of the stem. Do not be afraid to remove them, as the plant is able to quickly grow new ones. Before the leaf removal procedure, it is best not to water the plant for a couple of weeks, as this helps to concentrate. useful substances.

Leaves must be cut, plucked or broken off at the very base. You can either squeeze the juice with your hands, or chop the leaves and pass them through a meat grinder or blender. For the preparation of some compositions, this method is preferable. Before crushing the leaves, it is necessary to remove the skin from them.

It should be remembered that most useful only fresh leaves possess, therefore leaves should be removed only before the direct preparation of the medicine. After a few hours, many active compounds begin to decompose. The juice or gruel from the leaves also cannot be stored for a long time, even in the refrigerator. Of course, they will not deteriorate, but at the same time they will lose many of their useful properties.

Aloe vera medicine at home

Below are some juice or pulp recipes that you can make at home. Very often, honey is added to the juice, which enhances the effect of aloe. However, when using honey, it should be borne in mind that it is a strong allergen, even more powerful than aloe itself. The dosage should be strictly observed, since aloe products can cause some side effects. It should be remembered that these recipes do not replace treatment, but can only supplement it. Before using them, you should consult with your doctor.

To improve digestion, as well as to strengthen the body after serious illnesses, it is recommended to mix:

• 150 g juice
• 250 g honey
• 350 g strong red wine

This mixture should be infused for 5 days. Take one tablespoon three times a day before meals.

Another recipe is suitable for children to strengthen the body:

• Half glass of juice
• 500 g crushed walnut
• 300 g honey
• juice of 3-4 lemons

It should be taken 3 times a day before meals for a teaspoon.

During the course of treatment for tuberculosis, the following mixture will do:

• 15 g juice
• 100 g butter
• 100 g cocoa powder
• 100 g honey

The mixture should be taken 3 times a day for a tablespoon.

In the treatment of ulcerative colitis, it is recommended to take juice of 25-50 ml twice a day. For gastritis, the juice is taken in a teaspoon half an hour before meals for 1-2 months. For constipation and colitis, it is also recommended to take juice in a teaspoon before meals.

For stomach and duodenal ulcers, you can prepare the composition by taking 0.5 cups of crushed leaves and ¾ cups of honey. It is necessary to insist the mixture for 3 days in a dark place. Then add a glass of Cahors, leave for another day and strain. The composition is taken in a tablespoon 3 times a day before meals.

Pure juice can be used to treat respiratory diseases. With a runny nose, it is recommended to instill 3 drops every day in each nostril. The course of treatment is a week. For sore throats, gargling with plant juice diluted in equal proportions with water will help. With stomatitis, you can also use freshly squeezed juice for rinsing.

For the treatment of neurosis, mix aloe leaves, carrots and spinach and squeeze the juice out of them. Take two tablespoons of juice three times a day.

In the treatment of conjunctivitis and inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyes, the gruel from the leaves should be diluted with water in a ratio of 1:5. Do not use undiluted juice! Infuse the mixture for an hour, boil for an hour and strain. The resulting liquid must be used for lotions and rubbing.

• 3 art. l. juice
• 6 art. l. honey
• 9 st. l. vodka

The components are mixed and the resulting substance is moistened with gauze, which is applied to the affected area.

Succulents have long been used in medicine. The biologically active elements contained in them are able to stop inflammatory processes, fight bacteria, and promote wound healing. The substances contained in aloe are strong antioxidants, therefore it is actively cultivated on an industrial scale and as indoor culture. The owner of this plant on the windowsill may have a question: agave and aloe - what is the difference between them?

In contact with

Agave - "folk" name Aloe arborescens(Aloe arborescens). Sometimes the entire genus Aloé L. is called the agave. Indoor succulents got an unusual name because they bloom in the temperate zone as if once every hundred years. This is not true. AT room conditions flowering is impossible. Long scarlet peduncles are observed annually in tropical or southern Africa.

Aloe vera or present is a herbaceous plant. In ancient times, dwellings were decorated with its shoots. They could hang from houses for years and even bloom without access to water. Also, condensed juice, sabur, was obtained from the pulp of the plant. Both plants, like all succulents, are extremely hardy and able to exist where conditions are far from favorable. Is it possible and?

What is the difference in the structure of aloe and aloe vera:

• the agave has a tree-like upright shoot, and the stem of the second is short, does not form a "trunk". The bulk of the shoot falls on the leaves;
• habitat is another point on which aloe differs from aloe vera. South Africa was mastered first, its northern regions - the second;
• the main morphological difference between aloe vera and aloe is that its leaves, which are thicker and have a different color, are covered with a scattering of white spots. A rosette of leaves is located at the base of the shoot. At the agave, they form a rosette at the top of the stem, die from the bottom, which causes scars. The shape is lanceolate, pointed towards the end, slightly concave. Both species have small spines along the edge.

Agave or tree aloe and aloe vera

Both plants give young shoots in the root part, which.

The agave grows in places with pronounced seasonality of rains and aridity, and is adapted to the lack of water. A bluish tint appears due to a waxy coating that protects against excessive evaporation of moisture.

The chemical composition of Aloe arborescens determines its importance as an antioxidant. Phenolic compounds included in its "inner gel" neutralize the effect of free radicals on oxidative processes in cells.

In the juice of the agave found:

• organic acids;
• amino acids;
• carbohydrates;
• vitamins;
• trace elements.

Among the acids in the gel-like pulp of the leaf, malic acid predominates. The main amino acid is glutamine, its content in juice accounts for 0.04%. The main carbohydrates are sucrose and glucose. Phenolic compounds neutralize free radicals, which makes agave a promising source of dietary supplements.

Differences between aloe and aloe vera chemical composition insignificant, this also applies to properties.

Is there a difference in medicinal properties?

Agave is an antioxidant stronger than real aloe, however, both types are used as laxatives, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial agents. Widespread as an ingredient. The pulp of plants has medicinal properties. Compresses are made from it, the juice is used internally and externally. The shoots are canned and made into extracts or tablets.

How is aloe different from kalanchoe?

Aloe and Kalanchoe belong to different families: Asphodel (monocot) and Crassula (dicot), respectively. The difference in morphology and other features of the taxon determine how Aloe differs from Kalanchoe. The habitat is similar. Meet often.

Medicinal varieties include Kalanchoe Degremona. Its straight stem does not branch, lanceolate leaves grow at a slight angle relative to the stem and have teeth. Bound with teeth interesting way reproduction: buds appear between the cloves, germinating into daughter plants. When the buds enter the soil, rooting occurs.

According to the chemical composition, the agave and Kalanchoe are similar:

• organic acids (including malic);
• polysaccharides;
• carbohydrates;
• vitamins;
• trace elements;
• flavonoids.

The combination of such elements determines the range of application as an anti-inflammatory agent, for burns, and other skin diseases. Agave is used for the same, but is more widely used in pharmaceuticals.

Useful video

Aloe is one of the most popular indoor plants with medicinal properties. Many people know it under the name agave, not realizing that this is not a popular name, but a completely different species:

Conclusion

1. The difference between agave and aloe vera lies in the appearance of the shoot.
2. Aloe is used to treat and prevent a spectrum of inflammatory, for example, such as, as well as intestinal diseases, etc. What distinguishes aloe does not affect them chemical properties and biological activity.
3. From the group of succulents, Kalanchoe will also have a similar effect on the body.

At the word "aloe" in the mind of the majority, a medicinal plant growing in almost every home with long fleshy leaves appears in front of the mind's eye. Many are accustomed to his other name - agave, obtained for a long life and rare flowering.

But real flower growers and botanists are well aware that aloe is not only green bushes familiar to everyone.

For many, the difference between aloe vera and agave is not obvious. Whether this plant is the same or not can be understood by studying the species a little.

Decorative types of aloe

In the world There are hundreds of species of this plant., and at home, you can breed several, and not one of them. Africa is the birthplace of these succulents, capable of accumulating water in themselves in order to survive in conditions of rare desert rains. More than 90% of aloe leaves are moisture, giving them their characteristic fleshy appearance.

In addition to the notorious agave, other types can be grown at home:

• aloe vera;
• spinous;
• brindle;
• awesome;
• spiral;
• Rauha.

Almost any succulents are suitable as elements of home decor - most of them are exotic, and some are distinguished by colorful bright colors, a bizarre arrangement of leaves and serve as an excellent interior decoration. Relative unpretentiousness in care and endurance allow even inexperienced lovers to grow aloe.

Despite the rare and short flowering, the appearance of many representatives is so unusual and interesting that it makes you forget about this shortcoming. Spinous aloe, for example, is a dense rosette of many triangular wide leaves about 15 cm high, crowned with tendrils-awns and dotted with small white peas. At good care once a year in spring, it throws out a long peduncle, on which an orange-red flower, similar to a bell, blooms.

The brindle variety is named for the contracted white-green coloration of short triangular leaves, collected in rosettes and looking very picturesque.

Home healers: aloe vera and agave

Valued in aloe are not only decorative, but also medicinal properties. In this regard, two species are unsurpassed: tree-like (everyone knows agave) and Barbados (aloe vera).

The first plant has been perfectly studied by domestic biologists and pharmacologists: it has no equal in the treatment of diseases of many organs and systems. In the southern regions of the country, it was grown in open ground in designated areas. The agave has a fairly thick developed stem, from which extend elongated xiphoid smooth leaves of a gray-green hue, framed by soft spikes. In length, the plant is able to stretch up to 1 m or more. Into the wild native nature it blooms quite often, which cannot be said about domestic representatives.

Aloe vera is a rarer species for us, although it is considered by many to be the twin of the agave. There are indeed similarities between these representatives of the flora. Both plants have powerful healing properties and have an almost identical biochemical composition. The appearance of the Barbadian has differences, albeit implicitly expressed. Its stem is short, the leaves are triangular, much wider than those of the tree - about 10-15 cm and less elongated in length. AT wild nature aloe vera grows up to 60–80 cm. ornamental plant several times less. But people who are little versed in botany are more likely to confuse aloe vera and agave, what is the difference between them, only an experienced eye can catch at a glance.

Medicinally valuable is aloe juice contained in the lateral tubules of the leaves under the skin and a gelatinous transparent gel that fills inner part leaves.

In matters relating to the medicinal properties of plants, there is no unanimous opinion. Every succulent has its supporters. Some argue that aloe vera copes with various health problems much better and is real, which is confirmed by its Latin name - vera. Opponents object that agave has a higher concentration of biostimulants and minerals.

Pharmaceutics does not recognize the fundamental difference between aloe vera and agave, given the strong medicinal qualities of both species, allowing preparations from them for internal and local use. But there is an important difference between aloe vera and agave in a medicinal sense: the leaves of the first are more massive and wide than those of the second and contain a lot of gel substance, the concentration of juice is higher in the tree. For this reason, in cosmetology, where a gel is more needed, the use of the Barbadian species is considered more reasonable.

You can distinguish aloe vera from agave by the leaves: in a “real” plant, they are of a rather bright shade, collected in dense rosettes, the stem is short or completely absent. treelike

Other species, both wild and ornamental, also contain biologically valuable substances and have healing properties, which have not yet been sufficiently studied.

Aloe juice and gel

The composition of these natural substances is unique, they include:

• anthraglycosides;
• enzymes;
• minerals calcium, zinc, iron, lithium, selenium;
• steroid compounds;
• phytoncides;
• vitamins C, PP, group B, tocopherol, carotene.

The juice has an antimicrobial, choleretic, anti-inflammatory, regenerating effect. Aloe extract is an effective drug, used official medicine in the treatment of pathologies digestive system, musculoskeletal system, organs of vision, respiration, skin diseases. The pharmaceutical industry produces:

• sabur - condensed juice, used both internally and externally;
• injection extract in ampoules;
• syrup;
• aloe tablets;
• eye drops.

The cosmetic properties of aloe are also wide. The ability to heal microcracks, relieve irritation, and stimulate the growth of new cells allows its components to be used in the production of skin and hair care products. The gel in the pulp of the leaves, which has a softening and anti-inflammatory effect, is added to lotions, shampoos, creams and balms.

How to use aloe at home

Homemade specimens of the Barbados and tree succulents are suitable for cooking medicines. Self-produced products are not inferior to pharmaceutical ones, but surpass them in the content of useful substances and unique biostimulants.

With their help, you can saturate the body with vitamins, get rid of problems with gastrointestinal tract, joints, strengthen immunity, cure lungs, improve blood composition, get rid of adenovirus, streptococcal, staphylococcal, diphtheria infections, accelerate wound healing. Masks, rubbing, compresses with aloe heal and rejuvenate the skin, keep the hair soft and shiny.

Biologists advise not to neglect additional biostimulation, adhering to the following procedure:

• Before use, separate washed parts of plants should be wrapped in a napkin and kept in the refrigerator for 12 days at a temperature of 7–8°C. Damage gives impetus to the production of special compounds that promote tissue regeneration.
• For extracting juice from the leaves thin layer cut off the skin or make several cuts, allowing the light yellow liquid to drain completely into the substituted dishes. In the future, it is used as a laxative, choleretic or antibacterial agent. Aloe juice is very bitter in taste, for internal use it is diluted with water, mixed with other ingredients, added to compresses.

The peel is usually not used, it has no medicinal value, in addition, the spines contained on it can injure the mucous membrane or skin.

The gelatinous gel is used in the treatment of gastritis, stomatitis, as an independent cosmetic product for skin and hair care, in the treatment of irritations, dermatitis, cuts, boils. Barbadian aloe and agave are also healing, what is the difference between their health substances is difficult to determine even by a professional pharmacist.

Often in recipes traditional medicine liquid and gel extracts of succulent are mixed, providing a complex therapeutic effect.

To obtain a therapeutic effect, aloe preparations are used in short or long courses, depending on the severity of the problems.

Reviews:

At home I have aloe vera and good old agave. I use them in turn. From the pulp of the first I prepare a gruel for the treatment of corns, corns and moisturizing the skin of the hands, I add it to my shampoos instead of conditioner. The result never fails. Agave coolly helps with cholecystitis. I squeeze juice from it and take it with honey. Pain and nausea subside almost immediately.

Spotted aloe, such a brindle green and white color, was presented. During a cold, I decided to buy it in the nose, although it seems to be non-medicinal. But there was nothing useful at hand anyway. She tore off one leaf and squeezed out the juice. It smells and looks like an ordinary agave. Dropped a few times right in the nose. It helped, the nose began to breathe normally. I don't think there is much difference between them.

Aloe Vera is very easy to use. One sheet is enough for me to make a mask for hair and face from one gel. Caring for him is not annoying: frequent watering is not needed, and it grows not so long and greener than the look we are used to.

Aloe Vera has been known as a medicinal plant since biblical times. And even today it is difficult to find a person who has not heard of him. There are over 400 types of aloe. For cosmetic and medicinal purposes, Aloe Vera (sometimes called Aloe Barbados) is recognized as the most valuable.

A plant that is at least three years old has useful properties. Aloe contributed to the development of the famous theory of biostimulation - any changes in the environment provoke the formation of biogenetic stimulants with therapeutic properties.

To get a bio-stimulating juice at home, you should cut an aloe leaf and put it in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 days, then squeeze the juice. Aloe is a storehouse of biologically active substances. Among them are polysaccharides, salicylic acid, glucuronic acid, folic acid, vitamins A, E, C and group B, essential acids. In general, it contains up to 200 useful components.

In medicine, its translucent jelly-like substance is used. It is believed that the main active ingredient of Aloe vera are polysaccharides. They have a moisturizing effect and stimulate local immunity.

Aloe vera gel from different companies differs in its composition. And its composition depends on the degree of purification from low molecular weight substances. In ordinary cosmetics, Aloe vera gel is used at a concentration of 2 - 5%, and in elite cosmetics - up to 45 - 80%.

The crude gel contains substances that give it a bitter taste, they are quite toxic, and in some people cause skin irritation. Therefore, with an increase in the concentration of the gel, the requirements for the degree of purification increase. Such funds are expensive. These creams are quickly and well absorbed without leaving a greasy sheen, are well distributed over the surface of the skin, create a moisturizing film, and provide multi-level .

Aloe Vera is different from the well-known aloe, called agave. The latter belongs to the tree-like aloe, it has a trunk, on the sides of which there are leaves. Aloe Vera has a rosette of leaves. All aloes are succulents, that is, they are plants that are adapted to a dry, hot climate and can “store” water for future use. Since aloe has to save moisture, its leaves are hard, covered with small thorns. It is this structure that prevents water from evaporating.

Aloe Vera is used for medical purposes and in cosmetics, so it is grown on plantations. Aloe Vera is a powerful anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antifungal agent. Its juice strengthens the immune system and is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, and also heals ulcers and wounds. Aloe is used even in oncology. However, the agave should not be used for oncological diseases, since its leaves contain cell growth stimulants. And in general, this type of aloe has many other contraindications, and therefore, before starting any independent treatment, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Aloe Vera for face

In cosmetology, this plant occupies an honorable place, among all miraculous remedies. Aloe provides a complex effect on all skin types.

1. Moisturizes and nourishes
2. Helps smooth skin and shrink pores
3. Gently but deeply cleanses the skin, exfoliates dead cells
4. Calms the skin after sunburn or chemical peel
5. Restores and protects
6. Rejuvenates
7. Normalizes metabolic processes.

Cosmetics containing Aloe Vera is used to treat acne, dermatitis, skin ulcers, eczema. Aloe Vera gel is added to cosmetics that will help restore cell structure, promote their regeneration, and make your skin smooth, toned, and elastic. It is useful to treat small wounds, cuts after shaving with Aloe Vera juice, they will heal faster.

Cosmetic products containing Aloe Vera nourish the skin, protect it from negative impacts environment, brighten . With regular use of masks and creams containing Aloe Vera, the skin is literally transformed.

Aloe Vera at home

Aloe Vera gel-based products can also be prepared at home. This will require a few ingredients and a little time.

Mask for dry skin

If the mass of aloe juice, honey, glycerin and oatmeal is mixed and whipped into clean water, leave for 15 minutes, then apply to dry, cleansed skin, get a stunning rejuvenating effect. This mask can be used every other day, keep it for about 30 minutes.

Rejuvenating Aloe Vera Mask with Avocado and Apricot

Take crushed aloe leaves, apricot pulp, avocado and olive oil. Mix everything until smooth and apply on the face. Wash off the mask after 15 minutes. warm water.

Mattifying cream

For oily skin to improve her condition, prepare a matting cream, for which you will need the following components:

Distilled water - 49.7%.
Lemon hydrolat - 30%.
Aloe vera gel - 10%.
Emulsifier Olivem 1000 - 7%.
Arrowroot powder - 2%.
Preservative Kosgard - 0.6%.
Eucalyptus essential oil - 0.5%.
Rosalin essential oil - 0.2%.

Method of preparation: heat water, lemon hydrolate and emulsifier in a water bath in the same container to a temperature of 70 °C. Remove the melted mixture from the heat and stir it with a whisk or a clean glass rod for 3 minutes until a homogeneous consistency is obtained. As soon as the mass has cooled to a temperature of about 40 ° C, add the rest of the ingredients to it, stirring constantly. When the cream has cooled, it can be used.

Serum for mature skin

What is needed most for mature skin? Of course, the lift. And to achieve the desired tightening effect, you will need:

Aloe Vera Gel - 20 ml.
Rose hydrolat - 10 ml.
Butter plum pits- 1.5 ml.

...And a little time to mix everything in one container until a homogeneous mass is obtained. Now you can use.

Cosmetics containing Aloe Vera gel are often created in combination with other active ingredients, such as the unique Aloe Propolis Moisturizer or the Aloe Vitamin E Cream.

On sale you can find creams, emulsions, milks, soothing gels, hair treatment and styling products, masks, scrubs, tonics and other products containing Aloe Vera gel. Among them are moisturizing and restorative products with a high content of natural juice this plant.

Men's series of products with Aloe Vera - gels, lotions relieve skin irritation during shaving, tighten and tone.

Anti-aging complexes - face tonics, cleansers, face and hand creams, masks, etc. actively fight the signs of aging, retain moisture, relieve fatigue, cleanse the skin and heal.

Aloe Vera has a beneficial effect on the scalp, activates and nourishes the hair and hair follicles. The plant helps with hair loss, baldness and dandruff. Hair becomes strong, thick and shiny. At the beginning of treatment, the juice can be rubbed into the scalp daily, after the condition improves, it can be used 1-2 times a week. The course of treatment is 2-3 months. If, aloe juice is rubbed in a mixture with vodka 2-3 hours before shampooing. At the beginning, such procedures are recommended every other day, then less often.

Aloe Vera gel can be seen in the composition of various hair products: shampoos, balms, masks and rinses. Shampoos aimed not only at washing hair, but also for nourishing, moisturizing and overall hair health, are usually made from natural remedies. Therefore, when using them, they should be applied to the head and left for a little more than five minutes, so that the nourishing ingredients can act on the scalp and hair. Conventional shampoos contain harsh surfactants, so they should be applied to the head on short span time, then rinse quickly.

Aloe Vera gel is suitable for all skin types, and in many cases does not cause allergic reactions. If you decide to start treating a disease by taking aloe inside, you should consult a doctor, there are contraindications.

Aloe - many people know the name of this plant. Much is known about its useful and medicinal properties, and this knowledge is successfully applied in human life. But few people know that aloe belongs to succulents; there are more than 300 species in the Xanthoreaceae family.

Of all this diversity, only about 15 species have healing properties, the most popular are aloe vera and agave. Work on studying the properties of this useful plant is still underway.

Aloe can be of the most diverse form from miniature plant before tall tree(10m). All species are characterized by xiphoid leaves, with sharp spikes along the edge. It can be both pale light green and saturated green.

Plants differ in appearance, but apart from that they differ in internal features. Aloe has large and fleshy leaves, which is why they contain more gel and juice. Agave more unpretentious appearance and growing it at home is much more convenient. Unpretentious to environmental conditions.

Aloe Vera (left) / Agave (right)

Contraindications for use

Despite the medicinal properties, if used improperly, aloe can be harmful. Its use is contraindicated in the following situations:
throughout the pregnancy and breastfeeding
during menstruation
with individual intolerance
allergies to this succulent and any substance that is in the composition
with disorders of the liver and gallbladder
with diseases such as cystitis and hemorrhoids

The healing properties of aloe

The leaves of the plant contain about 200 substances that have medicinal properties. Among them: hyaluronic, citric, malic, salicylic and other acids, essential oils, tannins, sugars, vitamins (B1-B3, B6, B9, B12, C, E and others), minerals (F, Ca, Cl, Zn and others).

Aloe contains a lot of useful substances, and therefore, it can be used to solve different problems with health.
The juice of this plant and products prepared on its basis can have an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antitoxic, analgesic, hypoglycemic, anti-allergic, anti-cancer, regenerating, immunomodulatory effect.

In addition, aloe helps to cope with such health issues as: normalization of metabolism, the work of the digestive and secretory glands, relieving itching, improving skin condition through nutrition, moisturizing, rejuvenation, lowering cholesterol, bile output, sedative, wound healing.

Recipes using aloe and its juice for the beauty of the skin and body

• We take Castor oil, honey and aloe juice are combined in equal volumes. It is important to apply this mask on wet hair for 10 minutes and rinse with shampoo. It will add shine and volume.

Dandruff, hair loss- a terrible mosquito of any girl, aloe, or rather its juice, will help to cope with it.

• Every day for 2-3 months, you need to rub aloe juice into the scalp. After the first improvement, you can reduce the number of procedures to 2 per week. Oily hair, then you can try rubbing aloe juice mixed with vodka in equal proportions, 2.5 hours before washing your hair. This procedure can be carried out no more than once every 2-3 days.

The constant use of face masks will help to cope with eczema and psoriasis, as well as significantly reduce the number of acne and inflammation. Masks and creams with aloe are recommended for sensitive skin.

• For cooking face masks for dry skin will need: aloe juice, honey, glycerin, oatmeal, water. Whip all the ingredients with a blender, wait 10-15 minutes and apply to cleansed face skin. You can use this mask once every two days, apply a thick layer and walk with it for at least 25 minutes.
• To prepare the mask for aging skin need: mix aloe juice with honey in a ratio of 1 to 2. Such a mask should be applied to the skin in a thick layer within 30-40 minutes. Do you want to get rid of acne? There is a very easy way to wipe the skin of the face with freshly cut aloe pulp daily. Importantly, the skin must be cleansed of cosmetics.
• Mask for acne and pimples:aloe leaves (fresh pulp), grind, add protein and a couple of drops of lemon juice - mix until a mushy state. Apply the resulting mixture in three layers and hold for 25-30 minutes. Wash off with warm water.
• Mask for redness and inflammation: mix aloe juice with clay (white or blue), apply a mask on the face with a thick layer for 15-20 minutes. Wash off with cool water.
• Inflammation lotion: Pour the cut leaves with water and let stand for about an hour, then boil for 2 minutes. After cooling, the resulting liquid must be filtered and used as a lotion or in the form of lotions every day.

Recipes with aloe for health

All people know the benefits and indispensability of honey in the fight against various diseases, especially colds. And in combination with aloe, this is a very effective remedy.

Want to raise immunity or just suffered a serious illness, then the recipe for this tincture is for you:

• aloe leaves and Walnut(0.5 kg each) chop, add one and a half cups of honey, and put in a dark, warm place for three days. The resulting infusion should be taken 3 times a day after meals, no more than 1 tbsp.

tortured bronchitis or another cold, then you need to stop at this version of alcohol tincture:

• Mix 100 ml of alcohol, 750 ml of red wine and 350 grams of leaves (grind) in a glass container. You should use 2 tbsp. twenty minutes before meals, children 1 tsp. Store only in a dark cool place.

If a children often get sick or do they just weak immunity, you can give them a special mixture three times a day before meals for a teaspoon.

• For its preparation you will need: 0.5 st. aloe juice, 0.5 kg walnuts(should be crushed first) lemon juice(from 4 pcs.), 300 grams of honey.

Aloe juice can be used as a remedy from runny nose and sore throat. Treatment of nasal congestion lasts at least 7 days, 2-3 drops in each nostril.

In order to get rid of pain in the throat,dilute the juice with water (in a ratio of 1 to 1) and rinse the mouth. Then, to enhance the effect, you can 1 tsp. drink juice with a glass of warm milk.

If a toothache and there is no way to visit the dentist, you can put a piece of a leaf on a sore spot, the substances that make up aloe have soothing properties.

From pain in the heart an infusion prepared according to this recipe will help.

• Pour a liter of boiling water into a thermos, add 1 tbsp. strawberry leaves and 2 tbsp. hawthorn (namely berries). We clean in a dark place for a day, filter through cheesecloth and add 1 tbsp. aloe juice. For taste, you can add a little honey before each dose. Take this infusion preferably at bedtime, 250 ml. You can store in the refrigerator. The course of treatment is 7 days.

Cough can be neutralized with the help of such a therapeutic composition:

• Lingonberry juice plus aloe juice (in equal amounts), plus 1 teaspoon of honey. Take 2 tablespoons 4 times a day after meals.

Taking 10 drops of aloe juice every day, you can forget about any diseases associated with gastrointestinal tract(half an hour before meals). To forget about gastritis must be consumed daily a teaspoon of honey with aloe juice (from leaves at least 5 years old).

To solve such a delicate problem as haemorrhoids you can also apply knowledge about the healing properties of aloe. Lots of options:

• Inside, a small spoon (has a laxative effect), external use (compresses, lotions, candles). It is believed that the longer the leaf, the more useful and medicinal substances have accumulated in it. To solve this problem, you need to choose sheets of at least 12 cm in length.

Lifesaver in various situations:

• Herpes jumped up - juice from a new cut will quickly and perfectly cope with it. It is enough to wipe this place 5 times a day.
• For the healing of wounds, fistulas, ulcers, a bandage is applied with an ointment prepared on the basis of aloe juice. 1 tbsp alcohol is added to a glass of a mixture of honey and juice (1 to 1). Mix thoroughly and store in a tightly closed container in the refrigerator.
• Rubbing aloe juice into whiskey with massage movements, you can get rid of migraines and dizziness.
  With the help of a napkin soaked in aloe juice, redness and dryness can be removed from the burn.

How to collect aloe juice and preserve its medicinal properties for as long as possible

In order to collect the maximum a large number of juice, you need to cut suitable leaves (under different recipes, they should be different ages). Then they need to be cut into small pieces and chopped. The resulting slurry is filtered and poured into molds. To preserve the maximum amount of nutrients, you can freeze the juice in the refrigerator.

To obtain fresh juice, which is used to make compresses and tinctures, you must:
collect leaves (3-5 year old plant)
clean, where it is dark and cool (up to 10 degrees)
rinse in boiled chilled water
grind
squeeze with gauze
boil for a few minutes in a water bath
use as intended

Useful video

Aloe for pregnant women

The question of the use of aloe and its components for expectant mothers is at a very interesting angle. On the one hand, it is a natural remedy, in which there is such a huge amount of necessary substances. On the other hand, there are too many of them and they can cause a miscarriage or cause premature birth, they can provoke complications. But there are more or less neutral ways to use aloe in the life of a pregnant woman.

Majority safe ways outdoor application. For example, a compress or bandage, nose drops or gargle are considered relatively safe. It is desirable that neither aloe, nor its components, nor injections or pills be allowed into the life of a girl in interesting position, especially if this event is long-awaited.

To strengthen immunity during pregnancy, you can take a composition such as: a tablespoon of honey plus a few drops of juice and dilute it all with water. Tasty, and most importantly useful. But most the best option there will be a mandatory consultation with a specialist leading a girl during pregnancy.

In addition to juice, tinctures and ointments, aloe extracts are sold in pharmacies in tablets and injections. This allows you to increase the chance of choosing an aloe-based medicine that is most suitable for each person.

But in no case, you do not need to self-medicate. This is especially true for children's health. Talk to a specialist, let him tell you a proven recipe, with a dosage calculated for your body characteristics.