Aloe vera and mint plant components may offer you several benefits. The aloe vera plant, found in tropical and subtropical locations, has been used medicinally since ancient times. The healing mint plant, a member of the mentha species, is grown worldwide. Aloe vera and mint plants are used for digestive ailments, skin disorders and may help infections. However, seek medical advice before using aloe vera or mint to treat any potentially serious condition.
Digestive
Aloe vera and mint plants can benefit your digestive system. Aloe vera juice is a potent laxative backed by strong scientific evidence, according to the Mayo Clinic. However, aloe vera juice alone causes painful cramping, so the University of Maryland Medical Center advises you to first try a less powerful plant-based laxative.
Peppermint oil may help with numerous digestive problems. Investigations indicate that peppermint oil capsules may treat irritable bowel syndrome symptoms such as pain, bloating, gas and diarrhea, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Peppermint oil also aids digestion, calms intestinal muscles and eases heartburn. Although considered beneficial, it is wise to consult your doctor before using aloe vera or peppermint oil as digestive aids.
Infections and Healing
Aloe vera and mint plants, which have anti-viral and anti-bacterial components, have been used for centuries to defeat infection and promote healing. Laboratory evidence suggests topical aloe vera gel promotes wound healing and decreases inflammation, according to the Mayo Clinic. Aloe vera may also be a treatment for genital herpes and psoriasis, based on preliminary evidence, says The University of Maryland Medical Center. Indeed, one investigation found that aloe vera was more effective than 1 percent hydrocortisone cream in fighting inflammation.
Peppermint kills bacteria, according to The University of Maryland Medical Center. (See Reference 4) Evidence from the United States National Library of Medicine concurs. Essential oils from mentha plants were discovered to have potent anti-bacterial properties---primarily against Esherichia Coli. Peppermint oil, or mentha piperita, was found to be the most powerful bacterial opponent, says the National Library of Medicine. (See References 1 and 5) While evidence seems promising, additional research is needed to fully support the use of aloe vera and mint plant derivatives to treat infections.
Skin
Aloe vera and mint plant components may alleviate several skin conditions. Aloe vera is a common home remedy for minor burns and sunburn, and is found in many lotions and cosmetics. Aloe is a known pain reliever and skin healer. Scientific literature states that burn patients treated with aloe vera healed nine days earlier than patients not treated with this herb, according to The University of Maryland Medical Center. However, other investigations regarding the effects of aloe on burn healing were inconclusive. In addition, aloe vera has been used for years to treat skin infections and wounds.
Peppermint applied topically cools and soothes skin irritations such as poison oak, poison ivy and hives, claims the University of Maryland Medical Center. Peppermint is also useful for pain, insect bites and rashes. Although peppermint and aloe vera are believed to be effective skin treatments, you should consult your doctor for serious burns, rashes or other skin conditions.
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