In our quest for finding the perfect solution for issues pertaining to hair, skin and overall health we couldn’t help but be led consistently towards the miracle plant Aloe Vera. The benefits of Aloe Vera gel are multi-fold and, as any frequent user can tell you, impeccable. So what is it, how to use it and why are we calling it a miracle plant?
Aloe vera has two major components; aloe gel and the latex. Gel is obtained from within the plant and is the clear jelly like substance. The latex is yellow in color.
Note: Aloe gel is safe to use while caution needs to be taken for the latex.
HOW TO EXTRACT ALOE VERA GEL??
Take a freshly cut Aloe Vera stem and use a butter knife to peel off the tough skin from one side. You will now be able to see a clear jelly like substance set within the plant in somewhat a solid-ish state. Using the same butter knife gently start grating the jelly surface in broad strokes moving upward to downward. You will notice immediately that the gel will start oozing. Collect the gel in a jar or a bowl. Be careful not to go deep into the green skin so that latex can be avoided. The benefits we are about to tell you only apply to gel.
Now that you have the Aloe gel. What to do with it? Here are the following ways aloe gel can help you:
MIRACLE SKIN SAVER:
Aloe Vera is a great remedy for a sun burn. Apply a little gel onto the affected area as it is a known healer and has proven to heal wounds faster than most medicated dressings.
Not only that, it has anti-bacterial properties and is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals that help stop eczema, acne, rosacea and psoriasis flare-ups.
MAKE UP REMOVER:
Many beauty experts maintain that aloe vera is an excellent way to remove makeup, especially raccoon eyes. Your average makeup removers have a lot of harsh chemicals that dry out the skin and cause pigmentation. The recommended way to use Aloe Vera is to squeeze a drop onto a cotton ball and remove makeup. It is that simple!
DARK CIRCLES:
Aloe Vera also helps in getting rid of those pesky dark circles that never seem to go away by utilising vitamin E, A, C and B12. Apply fresh Aloe Vera gel on a cotton ball and apply on the circles every night before you sleep.
FACE MASK AND WASH:
Aloe Vera gel can also be used as a face mask as it hydrates and nourishes the skin and is simple to make at home.
To make the face wash, mix 1 tbps of aloe gel with 1 tsp of almond milk, 1 tsp lemon, apply it on you face like a regular face wash and let it stay for one minute before rinsing.
To make the face mask simply add rose water to aloe vera gel (enough to give your face and neck good coverage). Wash you face and neck and apply the mask evenly. Leave on for 15-20 minutes and massage gently before removing.
EXFOLIATOR:
Aloe Vera can be used to exfoliate by making it into a homemade scrub. Mix 1/2 cup aloe gel, with enough brown sugar to get it gritty. Rub on your elbows, heels, arms of wherever you need and wash.
EYE BROW SHAPER:
Use Aloe Vera gel for strong brows to keep them tidy. Take a clean mascara wand, dip into Aloe gel and sweep over stray brows to keep them in place. On the other hand, if your brows have been over-tweezed or are lighter genrally, mix one part of aloe gel with one part castor oil it helps grow eyebrows faster.
WARNING: Do not take aloe gel internally if you are pregnant according to the ‘Prescription for Nutritional Healing, The A-to-Z Guide to Supplements, ” by nutritional counsellor Phyllis Balch. Avoid taking aloe vera during menstruation. Aloe is good in little doses as it is a high potency substance. Ensure that regulated doses are consumed and no high doses are taken. Please discontinue use of aloe vera gel if there is any form of discomfort or reaction. In cases like these, immediately consult your doctor.
