Aloe Vera: A One-Stop Beauty Aid

Aloe has been used for its medicinal properties for over 3,000 years. The Egyptian queens and well known beauties Nefretiti and Cleopatra used it as part of their regular beauty regimens. I don’t know about you ladies, but if it’s good enough for royalty, it’s good enough for me! Aloe serves as both an internal and external beauty aid. Sort of like a one-stop beauty aid. No need to hoard a myriad of facial moisturizers or hunt for the best hair conditioner – Aloe vera does it all! The gel of the aloe vera leaf contains over 75 nutrients and 200 active compounds, including 20 minerals, 18 amino acids, and 12 vitamins. Aloe vera is one of the best anti-aging herbs available, helping to rejuvenate aging skin and combat wrinkles. Let aloe vera juice surprise you as it: cleanses and supports your digestive system, infuses you with energy, hydrates your skin, soothes and promotes skin renewal, promotes weight loss, and supports your immune system. Just 2-4 ounces per day can yield noticeable changes quickly. For best results, look for the highest quality of organic aloe. Although many believe that a high quality aloe vera gel or juice contains only the nutritious inner gel; not the “whole leaf”, I have seen notable results from using just the “whole leaf” aloe vera juice. After all, how can I go wrong with the “whole” plant?

Aloe Vera is also very beneficial for your hair. It not only stops hair falling, but creates a good healthy scalp as well. It maintains the Ph balance of the hair and cleanses the pores. Massage the gel or juice ( try a spray bottle for easy application) onto the scalp and leave it for 10 to 15 minutes or overnight before shampooing your hair. Do this every time you wash your hair, because aloe vera has the ability to seal in the moisture content of the hair thus preventing it from drying and frizzing. It also stimulates hair production and can treat alopecia. It has amazing conditioning properties and can be used as a leave- in conditioner after shampooing. Plus, it’s a heat protectant! Use it as a hair serum or as a protective gel before using any heated instrument like hair dryer or flat iron. The well-known preparation of aloe vera gel, wheat germ oil and coconut milk is used as a shampoo and has traditionally shown great benefits for the growth of healthy, thick hair.
Additionally, a 2:1 preparation of aloe juice/gel and extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil makes a great softner/detangler for new growth.

So don’t let this timeless, inexpensive beauty secret slip by! Some common brands are Fruit of the Earth, GNC Natural Brand, and Nature’s Way. Pick up some today at your local market or health food store and reap the wonderful benefits!