Amazing Actions of Aloe Vera You Don't Know

ALOE VERA 

Aloe is a perennial herb native to southern and eastern Africa and subsequently introduced into northern Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, China, Gibraltar, the Mediterranean countries, and West Indies. Aloes are spiky cactus-like plant of the lily family. They are small, stemless rosette of fleshy leaves, 30-40 cm in height; leaves are succulent, growing from the center of the plant and can vary in length from 0.8 to 60 cm, the thick, fleshy leaves are able to store large amounts of water during the rainy season and are therefore able to survive throughout the drought in the dry season, lower leaves roselate and spreading or laying on the surface of the ground; pink or red perianth with pronounced basal swelling truncate at base, abruptly constricted above the ovary with the narrowest part above half of the length from the base and enlarging to the throat; influorescence is simple or branched, either terminal or lateral, with flowers usually shades of orange or red but sometimes yellow or even white, reaching maturity when it measures 45-120 cm long and has a base of 7.5 cm or greater in diameter; fruit (where available) not exceeding 2.5 cm long (Burkill, 1995; Hutchinson and Dalziel, 1958; Renolds, 1966; Young, 1950).

There are lots of plants under the genus aloe. Examples of plants under the family aloe are Aloe barbadensis, Aloe arborescens, Aloe ferox, Aloe schweinfurthi, etc. Whole leave and the yellowish juice or the transparent colorless gel have a lot of pharmacological activities.

Actions

Aloe vera contains bactericidal action (kill bacterial) against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus viridins, and the five strains of Streptococcus mutans—the cause of dental plaque. It is also antibiotic (), demulcent (), Coagulant (an agent that cause coagulation), Analgesic (a substance that offers relief from pains) for mild degree pain, and antiviral (capable of treating viral infections), Astringent (ability to cause constriction body cells and tissues), Vitamin B12 precursor, growth stimulator, vulnerary. They contain 18 amino acids and vitamins and aids eliminate toxic minerals from the body and neutralize free radicals created by toxic substances.

Uses

Hair growth and Dry Scalp:

Hair is a protein material built up on amino acids. A sebaceous gland at the base of the hair follicle secretes sebum, an oily substance, which acts as a lubricant. When vital minerals and vitamins are lacking in the blood the quality of fiber and sebum deteriorates resulting in lusterless hair and change of texture and loss of hair. Aloe Vera gel is noted for its moisturizing effect and to provide nutrients. It may be used as a shampoo, hair set, and conditioner.

Stretch marks, age lines and liver spots

Stretch marks are marks or narrow band on the skin, mostly on the abdomen, as a result of distension of the skin from obesity or during pregnancy. Liver spot is a skin condition with brown visible spots on the skin which can be caused by conditions such as lentigo. Squeezed the gel and applied it to the affected area twice to thrice daily.

Eczema, shingles, poison ivy, and other plant allergies

Eczema is a devastating medical condition whereby patches of skin become rough and inflamed with blisters that result in itching and bleeding. Shingles are acute painful eruptions and inflammation along a nerve path forming a girdle around the body, caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Poison ivy (displayed above) is a climbing plant with irritable oil secretion from its leave capable of causing dermatitis. Part of the fresh leaf cut and thick sap-juice of Aloe vera squeezed and gently spread on the affected area is known to cure those conditions. Apply on the affected area twice to thrice daily.

Acne, Chapped Skin, Ringworm, and nappy rash

Acne is an inflammatory sebaceous skin disease with pustules, papules and cysts found frequently in adolescents at the commencement of puberty when the sebaceous (grease) gland become more active. Chapped skin is when your skin is cracked, roughened as a result of exposure or cold. Nappy rash is a generic term that is applied to various skin rashes in the diaper area (thighs, and buttocks, usually associated with infants). Part of the fresh leaf cut and thick sap-juice of Aloe vera squeezed and gently spread on the affected area get rid of acne, chapped, skin, wing worm, and nappy rash. Applied it twice to thrice daily.

Protection against radiations burns, sunburns:

A segment of the fresh leaf rubbed on the skin was a centuries-old sun-screen used by desert Arabs against sunburn, and who regarded the plant as a natural medicine chest. Part of fresh leaf cut and thick sap-juice squeezed on the affected area for sunburn, burns, injury, wounds.

Arthritis, inflamed joints

Pulp leaves of Aloe vera is used as a poultice (a medical dressing consisting of a soft heated mass of material, typically consisting of herb, bran, flour, etc. that is spread on a cloth and applied to the skin to treat inflamed areas or improve circulation, etc) for inflamed joints, and arthritis. Gently heat the pulp leaves and spread on the affected part.

Internal: indigestion, stomach ulceration, leg ulcer, etc.

Undiluted gel 1-2 tablespoons (20-40ml) on empty stomach. For leg ulcer applied the gel on a cleaned affected part.

Dentistry

“In 12 years of dental practice I have not found anyone item which is so versatile for the healing needs of the mouth . . . an ancient plant for modern dentistry”. (Dr. B. Wolfe, “Health Consciousness”, Vol 6. No 1) Increasing use as a dental anesthetic, and for oral infections. Uses include gel on new dentures, rinsing every 4 hours. In canal filling the gel is used as a lubricant.

Contraindications

Aloe should not be used in patients with intestinal obstruction or stenosis, atony, severe dehydration with electrolyte depletion or chronic constipation, inflammatory intestinal diseases, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, children under 10 years of age. Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.

References:

1.       Thomas B. (1998), Bartram’s Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, (2nd Edition), Robinson Publishing Ltd UK.

2. West Africa Herbal Pharmacopoeia (2013), 1st edition, KS Printcraft GH. Limited, Kumasi, Ghana.

How I Became Acne/pimples Free - Acne Vulgaris. Causes, effects and treatment.

  

 Acne: Types, Causes, Effects, And Home Remedy

Acne vulgaris:

Popularly known as acne can be defined as an inflammatory sebaceous skin condition that results in the visible occurrences of spots and pimples frequently in adolescents at the commencement of puberty when the sebaceous glands become more active. Lesions may appear on the face, neck, and chest. Worse in winter, better in summer. Acne may be whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, cysts, and nodules. Blackheads are formed by blockage of follicles with sebum. A black pigment, melanin, concentrates on the top of the hair follicle forming a plug.

The hair follicles are attached by the sebaceous glands which are glands just close to the surface of the skin. This gland acts as a lubricant and lubricates the hair and the skin. The secretion of the sebaceous gland is called the sebum. When the sebum is produced in excess, with the help of expired skin cells they block the hair follicles. Bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes) on the skin sometimes take advantage and infect the clogged follicles causing nodules, papules, and pustules. The clog bulges out creating a whitehead (closed plugged pores) on the surface of the skin. Acne vulgaris has blackheads (comedones) that distinguish it from acne rosacea. Studies show low zinc levels. The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia records Poke root singularly effective. Medicines containing iodine and bromine (Kelp) should be avoided. Dr. Edward Frankel, Los Angeles, warns against the use of Vaseline which, through the build-up of bacteria, may cause a pustular reaction.

Alternative treatment: Teas. Agrimony, Alfalfa, Burdock leaves, Chamomile, Dandelion, Figwort, Gotu Kola, Heartsease, Hibiscus, Marigold petals, Mate tea, Nettles, Redbush (rooibos), Rose Hip, Violet, Wood Betony can be used to treat Acne vulgaris. Consult your medical herbalist, medication from the above has been proven capable of treating acne vulgaris.

Alternative home remedy:

• Cleanse lesions with distilled extract of Witch Hazel or fresh lemon juice. Follow with Marshmallow and Slippery Elm ointment, dilute Tea Tree Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Jojoba, or Aloe Vera gel. Thyme Lotion (Blackmore’s).
• Supplements: Vitamins A, B-complex, B6, C, E. Chromium, Selenium, Zinc.
• Avoid chocolate, cow’s milk, sugars, and drinks that induce facial flushing. Raw fruit and vegetables are helpful.

 

Acne Rosacea:

Chronic inflammatory skin disease of middle life with redness, i.e., enlargement of the nose due to swelling of sebaceous glands. Excessive alcohol consumption said to be a cause but is doubtful. May be accompanied by blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids). May appear anywhere on the body due to over-function of sebaceous (grease) glands. The absence of comedones distinguishes it from acne vulgaris. Often associated with dyspepsia (Meadowsweet), or hormone disorder (Agnus Castus). Key agent: Barberry bark (Berberis vulgaris).

Alternative treatment: Teas. Agnus Castus, Agrimony, Clivers, Dandelion, Nettles, Red Clover, Wood Betony. Tea. Formula. Equal parts: Agnus Castus, Dandelion, Wood Betony. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes; dose – 1 cup thrice daily.

The Consequences of acne:

The effects of acne include pains, scars, low self-esteem, anxiety, etc.

Triggers of acne

Do you know acne has triggers? Here are some of the things that render some people more prone to acne.

Teenage:

At the teenage, a lot of hormones are triggered at the stage of puberty. These hormones control essential roles both in girls and boys. The hormone testosterone sees the growth and the development of the male reproductive organ and increases bone and muscle strength in girls. It is thought that the increased level of testosterone increases the production of sebum which in turn serves as the breeding ground of acne.

Heredity:

Acne has hereditary ability such that if your parents had any form of acne, at adolescence or adulthood, you are likely to have it too.

As a female:

Studies show that females are more prospective to have adult acne than males. The complexity of the female chemistry is what accounts for the likelihood of them having adult acne. During menstruation (periods), and pregnancy, there are a lot of hormonal changes in a woman and these hormonal changes are what causes many instances of adult acne.

Other options:

You can rely on over-the-counter (OTC) medication in the form of soap, lotions, cream, and gels to treat and manage acne. Some active ingredients to check-in OTC acne medications before procuring one include:

• Salicylic acid: aids in the breakdown of blackhead and whitehead. It can also reduce swelling and inflammation during acne.

• Azelaic acid: this works by inhibiting sebum eruption and minimize the growth of bacteria.

• Resorcinol: it has the same function of salicylic acid.

• Benzoyl peroxide: it is a bactericide.

• Retin-A: through cell turnover, it unblocks hair follicles that have been blocked.

It is always advisable to see your dermatologist before using any of these medications.

Daily Practices and Tips:

• Washing your face with warm water and soap removes dead cells and sebum and it is good for lowering the risk of having acne

• During acne, it is tempting to pop but that makes causes scaring. If you can it is advisable to desist from touching the face.

• Refrain from using oil-based products.

 

Disclaimer: Seek your doctor's help before you may want to rely on any of the above to manage your acne. We are not to be held accountable for any side effects relying on the above suggestions.

References:

1.       Thomas B. (1998), Bartram’s Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, (2nd Edition), Robinson Publishing Ltd UK.

2.       Professor Dr. Reinhard L. et’tal, (2011), American Herbal Pharmacopoeia, CRC Press, United States Of America.

My First Blog Post

Welcome to the go alternative family

Hey…

Thanks so much for visiting my site gothealternative.blogspot.com and showing interest in joining the passionate family. I am David Zorngo, the person behind gothealternative.com. I am an author, an entrepreneur, and a medical herbalist by profession.

I am currently reading a book by David Allen, “Getting Things Done.” It is about time management and how to get things done without stress. Imagine how your life will be like if you could go by your work stress-free. Imagine the high margin of productivity if your body, mind, and soul will all work in harmony and whole towards the accomplishment of a specific task.

On this platform, I will be sharing with you contents that are well loaded with practicable information on how you can go by all walks of life with high margins of productivity and fun. These are some of the things to expect coming your way joining this family:

Staying healthy tips and healthy lifestyles:

The most important tool a man should give more time and attention to is that of his own body. But, sadly this is the last tool we ever consider if it is even worth the least of attention. We take our automobiles to the mechanic every two weeks to make sure they are in good shape. We add some fun to our wardrobe every month. We secure the most recent technological gadgets: phones, laptops, etc. we don’t want to be left out in this global village of technology. Well, they are all good and we need them, but, discover an important secret: the primary requirement that will make it possible for us to enjoy all those things is the body. You cannot drive if your body is not in good shape. Fashion is nothing when your health is failing. What are entertainments when you are on death bed battling for your life? Research shows that majority of the diseases that render a man incapable of enjoying his life comes from his own habit. Staying ignorant is staying dying. Most of the things that we take for granted, nutrition, and diet plans are what kills us. 

It is time you start asking the most important question in life: How to stay healthy? How to be healthy? Let a lot of the questions be about staying healthy. As a medical herbalist, I will come your way with contents that will help you answer these questions:

a.   How can I take care of my body?

b.  How to avoid some life-threatening diseases?

c.   How can I get the best shape?

d.  What should I give my body, when, and how?

e.  How can I treat and manage simples infections?

f.       Can I understand my body chemistry and how it is impacted by food?

g.   What is the science behind Phyto products, phytomedicine, and natural supplements?

h.  What are the trending news and researches into Phyto products, medicine, and natural supplement product?

In addition, you discover health food types: healthy diets, healthy breakfast, healthy food for kids, healthy snacks, healthy recipes, etc.

Tips and hacks to make life easy:

The journey of life is that of unpredicted events and unintended happens, those who will like to make the most out of it should be a lifelong learner who continues to find and make available solutions to future may-be problems, that they will not be stricken down unprepared. “A man’s mind,” said James Allen, “may be likened to a garden, which may be intelligently cultivated or allowed to run wild: but whether cultivated or neglected, it must, and will, bring forth. If no useful seeds are put into it, then an abundance of useless weed seeds will fall therein, and will continue to produce their kind.” Being part of this community, there will always be actionable information to help you cultivate your garden of a mind in a positive perspective. You will discover:

a.   New ways to make the most out of the power of your mind: understanding the conscious mind and the power of the subconscious mind.

b.  New ways to deal with all kinds of negative states: worry, anxiety, sadness, distress, bitterness, broken hearts, disappointment, etc.

c.   How to build the right attitude and habits: positive thinking, positive habit routine, etc.

d.  How to start your days with high energies and many more.

Money making hacks and tricks:

When it comes to the subject of money, one of Timothy Ferris quote is my favorite: “Money is multiplied in practical value depending on the number of W’s you control in your life: What you do, When you do it, Where you do it, and With whom you do it.” It will be a tautology to elaborate much further on this subject. That quote of Timothy Ferris is the exact summary. Despite the false believes many holds against money, it is still a divine truth that money intensifies the beauty of all things. These are the contents you should expect as a member of the family on the subject of money:

a.   What to do to make money: You will discover a lot of practical ways to make money online as well as offline. Or this will do as the summary: You will learn to create passive and active income streams including actionable steps on how to turn your computer into a money machine.

b.  Where to do it and the needed requirements.

Something to get you to put a smile:

Laughter makes life more interesting as such, a little joke will come your way as a member of this community.

This community cannot reach its goals of impacting lives without you. Your comments, suggestions, and complaints are always welcome. Provision is also available for guest posting. Let me hear from you in the comment box what you think and which contents you cannot wait to read.