Aloe Vera Benefits

Aloe vera has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments including burns, other skin conditions and constipation. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, aloe vera may benefit individuals with diabetes, helps to boost the immune system and enhances digestion. Aloe vera is available in tablets, capsules, juice, gel, cream or in lotion form. As with any herb, aloe vera should be taken with the advice and under the supervision of a professional healthcare provider.

Lowers Blood Glucose Level

Aloe vera may help individuals with type 2 diabetes. Uncontrolled Type 2 or adult onset diabetes causes elevated blood glucose levels or hyperglycemia. This can lead to complication of the kidneys, eyes, and the cardiovascular system. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, preliminary studies show aloe vera may lower blood glucose levels in patients with Type 2 diabetes. According to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, researchers reviewed more than 100 trials of herbs and supplements and their effects in lowering blood glucose level. There were two trials on aloe vera, showing a decrease in blood glucose levels after a six week period of using aloe vera gel supplementation. Further studies are needed to assess the effects of aloe vera on blood glucose levels.

Boosts the Immune System

A strong, healthy immune system protects the body against disease and promotes good health. Aloe vera is a nutritious supplement; it's a rich source of minerals, enzymes, amino acids and vitamins A, B, C, and E, according to ImmuneSystemRemedies.com. These nutrients help to build a healthy immune system and a strong body. Aloe vera is a powerful antioxidant that fights against the free radicals, prevents their damaging effects on cell tissues, delays the aging process and reduces the risk of diseases like cancer, heart disease and strokes.

Benefits The Digestive System

The enzymes contained in aloe vera enhance the digestive process by assisting the body's enzymes in the metabolism and absorption of nutrients into the body. Aloe vera benefits individuals with gastro-intestinal problems as it appears to delay the emptying of the stomach and inhibits the release of excess stomach acids and pepsin, an enzyme produced in the stomach, according to Aloeveraguru.com.

Caution

The Food and Drug Administration, or FDA ,ruled in 2002 that the stimulant laxative ingredient aloe in over the counter drug products are not generally recognized as safe and effective or are misbrand. This final ruling is part of the FDA's on going over the counter drug product review.

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/aloe-000221.htm

http://www.mskcc.org/mskcc/html/69116.cfm

http://www.immunesystemremedies.com/aloe-vera-juice-benefits.html