That Old Aloe Vera Magic - Let's Talk Skin

 

 

The juice from the Aloe Vera plant has been called the miracle worker.  It acts as a soother and a healing aid for many skin conditions. 

4 LAYERS OF THE ALOE VERA LEAF

1.      Rind - the outer protective layer;

2.      Sap - a layer of bitter fluid which helps protect the plant from animals;

3.      Mucilage Gel - the inner part of the leaf that is filleted out to make Aloe Vera gel.

4.      Aloe Vera (inner gel) contains the 8 essential Amino Acids that the human body needs but cannot manufacture.

There is much confusion between Aloe Vera Gel and Aloe Vera Juice with the two often being thought of as synonymous.  “Gel” refers to the inner leaf only, whereas “Juice” refers to the "Aloe Latex", a bitter substance found just under the skin of the leaf.

You can purchase an Aloe Vera Plant from any nursery. When you are ready to use, cut off about an inch at the tip of a leaf and squeeze the gel out from the leaf and then apply it directly onto the skin.  When applied directly from the plant, the gel will feel sticky as it dries. This will go away as the skin completely absorbs it.  Once you cut it, it is best to use it right away, therefore you should not cut off a leaf until you are actually ready to use it.  However, to preserve for a few days, you can wrap it in plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator.

For Skin Irritation:

The gel found in the Aloe Vera leaves is spread on the surface of minor burns, sunburn, heat rash, poison ivy or dry skin, etc. to soothe pain and aid in the healing process.  Those who suffer from conditions such as Eczema and Psoriasis also find great benefits from the use of aloe vera as it provides relief from itching and lessens the severity of the condition because it acts as an inflammatory agent. 

Daily Use:

Use of aloe vera on a consistent basis will allow dry skin to become more elastic and smoother, and give a more youthful appearance. It is absorbed into the skin and rehydrates it helping to rebuild healthy skin cells.  It can also be used on a daily basis as a skin moisturizer for proper skin production and prevention of the over production of the oil glands.  It has been said to help in reducing wrinkles and dark circles under the eyes.  Aloe vera can also be used an astringent which closes the pores ad to help reverse scarring.