Ancient Egyptians used aloe vera to treat worms, relieve headaches, soothe chest pains, and heal burns, ulcers and a host of skin diseases. A hardy cactus-like plant, it is believed to have originated in northern Africa. Suitable to be taken orally or used topically, ingesting aloe vera is believed to heal digestive and intestinal disorders. The plant's healing compounds are found in the clear jelly-like substance and yellow lining within the leaves.
Constipation Relief
The Mayo Clinic confirms aloe vera's ancient use as a laxative, as aloe stimulates the colon to evacuate waste. A substance called aloe latex, derived from the inner lining of the leaves, is believed to contain a compound which is responsible for the gentle laxative action the herb produces.
Lower Blood Sugar
Although further testing is required, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports that drinking aloe vera is believed to help lower blood sugar levels for those with adult onset diabetes. Aloe vera is known in Hispanic folk medicine as "nopal," which means "cactus juice."
Fight Viral Infections
Wilkes Barre University reviewed the aloe vera's medicinal benefits and found enough evidence to suggest that it has an antiviral effect that may be helpful in the treatments of herpes, chickenpox and even the flu. One study cited by the university's report also noted that aloe vera successfully enhanced the killing of Candida albicans, a bacteria which can contribute to yeast infections and other toxicities in the body.
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