Aloe vera is also known as the “Lily of the Desert” or “Kumari”, from the Indian language, meaning young unmarried girl / virgin. Aloe vera or Kumari is said to restore and renew female nature. The origins of this succulent plant dates back to B.C. times in the Arabian Peninsula. The plant grows in semi-tropical climates worldwide under very hot and arid lands. The benefits of these ancient popular plants are undeniable and its amazing healing properties.
When I was young, I regularly noticed my mom using Aloe vera for many uses, to moisturize skin, to heal sunburns and diaper rash and many other possibilities. Later, as I studied the holistic medicine of Ayurveda, this plant is revered for its anti-inflammatory, digestive, probiotic, diuretic, and rejuvenating qualities. The main part of the plant used are the leaves which contains the oily, sticky gel. It is bitter in taste, but the post-digestive flavour is sweet with a cooling energy, meaning it acts as a refrigerant cooling the body.
NINE DIFFERENT WAYS TO USE ALOE VERA
TO REDUCE INFLAMMATION: The clear mucilaginous gel has a cooling and soothing action in the body. The gel mixed with water helps to alleviate problems with excess of heat and inflammation. It helps in the reduction of excess pitta dosha (which controls digestion / inflammation, metabolism, including hormones that cause irritability and being self-critical).
FOR DIGESTION: Aloe vera is a good, bitter tonic. Aloe juice enhances the secretions of digestives enzymes, balances stomach acids, aids in digestion and regulates sugar and fat metabolism.
FOR CLEANSING: Aloe vera gel has a mild antibiotic effect; it clears toxins, protects the gut lining, including reduces pain and inflammation. It also supports the gut flora and helps to fight harmful micro-organisms in the stomach. Additionally, the gel aids to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), by soothing and reducing inflammation in the large intestine.
FOR A LAXATIVE EFFECT: The outer portion of the plant contains compounds called anthraquinones, Aloin, which causes a laxative effect, and emodin help with pain relief and work as antibacterial and antiviral agents . This is available in capsules, that is used in small amounts, taken in combination with a carminative herb like turmeric.
AS A REJUVENATING TONIC: Combine three ounces of fresh aloe vera gel with equal amounts of water; then add three teaspoons of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil and add one ounce of raw sugar. Once cool, take one to two tablespoons daily.
FOR SUNBURN RELIEF: The fresh gel can be applied externally, on the skin to soothe a sunburn, including it can be used to reduce diaper rashes, skin sores, and herpes.
AS A MOISTURIZER: Aloe vera gel is a powerful, hydrating elixir for skin care. Apply the aloe vera gel directly on the face to dehydrated skin; it helps to bring moisture back and speed recovery.
FOR MENOPAUSE: Hormonal changes can reduce the body’s moisture. Aloe vera can be used to correct hormonal imbalance; it replenishes hydration of mucus in the body. The gel helps to soothe and repair internal vaginal dryness.
AS MAKEUP REMOVER: Instead of using conventional make-up removal wipes, which may cause skin irritation, apply the gel directly on the face, wipe with a wet cotton ball to remove make-up.
The following material is provided for educational purposes only. Use at your own discretion. If you have a health problem, medical emergency, or a general health question, you should contact a physician or other qualified health care provider for consultation, diagnosis and/or treatment.
For personalized Ayurvedic Consultation, Yoga Therapy and Mindfulnes, connect with Monica Daza-Stephan Ayurveda & Yoga Therapist | Phone: 416-275-9141 |info@yogafymylife.com |www.yogafymylife.com Like Us, #Connect, #Share #Ayurveda #Self-care
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Resources
The Yoga Of Herbs An Ayurvedic Guide To Herbal Medicine by Dr. David Frawley and Dr. Vasant Lad
The Ayurveda Bible by Anne Mcintyre
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