Succulent plants are great ornamental plants to have in your home. Not only do they make pretty home decor, but they’re also low-maintenance and have a surprising number of uses. Succulents are also some of the most survivable plants on Earth.
One of the distinguishing traits of succulents is their tolerance to drought. Even in conditions where they don’t get enough water, these plants can still maintain photosynthesis and other metabolic processes, thanks to their specialized water-storing tissues. [1] Some of the most common succulents found in homes are snake plants, jade plants, some cacti species and of course, aloe vera.
Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) is a type of succulent that stores water in its leaves in the form of a thick, clear gel. This ability not only enables it to survive in arid regions, but it also makes aloe vera very useful to humans. [2]
When SHTF, you’ll be glad to have some aloe vera plants sitting around in your home. These plants will not only brighten up any space, but they’ll also make awesome natural remedies for various issues and even provide nutritional benefits.
The many uses of Aloe Vera
Succulents like aloe vera have many interesting qualities that you can take advantage of. For example, the pores on aloe vera leaves are very good at absorbing gases and removing toxins from the air, so placing some aloe plants in a room can help purify the air that you breathe. In addition, aloe leaves release water vapor during photosynthesis, which can help add a little moisture to the air and improve air quality. [3]
When you cut an aloe leaf in half, there are two useful components that you can get from it: the gel and the leaf juice. The gel is the thick, mucilaginous substance found in the inner part of the leaf, while the leaf juice refers to the liquid, or sap, that surrounds the gel. Although equally beneficial, many people prefer using aloe gel over aloe leaf juice because the latter contains aloin, a powerful laxative that can cause abdominal pains. [4] Note that aloe leaf juice is different from the aloe juice sold in health stores, which is usually made by blending aloe gel with water or fruit juice. [5]
Since ancient times, aloe vera has been known as a great moisturizing agent. Aloe vera gel, in particular, contains special polysaccharides like acemannan that can help bind moisture to your skin. [6] Aloe vera gel can also be used as a topical skin remedy because it contains a unique combination of bioactive plant compounds and essential nutrients that can do wonders for your skin.
For instance, a report published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology noted that aloe vera gel contains C-glucosyl chromone and alprogen, two phytonutrients that can naturally soothe your skin. [7] A study published in the journal Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry also found that a polysaccharide called glucomannan and a plant hormone called gibberellin in aloe vera gel can support your body’s natural ability to heal wounds by stimulating collagen synthesis. [8]
When applied topically, aloe vera gel also offers protection from oxidative damage caused by radiation. According to a study published in the Journal of Radiation Research and Applied Sciences, aloe vera gel contains metallothioneins, antioxidant proteins that can neutralize free radicals. [9] Other protective compounds found in aloe vera gel include beta carotene and vitamins C and E, all three of which are known potent antioxidants.
Besides your skin, your digestive system may also benefit from aloe vera. Fresh, clean aloe vera gel can actually support optimal digestive health. [10] In a study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, researchers further confirmed aloe vera’s digestive supporting properties. [11]
Another great use for aloe vera gel is as an ingredient for an all-natural mouthwash. In a study published in the Ethiopian Journal of Health Sciences, researchers found that gargling with an aloe vera-based solution every day is a much safer way to support optimal oral health than gargling with commercial mouthwash. In fact, aloe vera proved to be just as effective at cleaning the oral cavity as mainstream mouthwash. [12][13]
You can also use aloe vera to make a non-toxic cleaner that you can use around your home. As shown in a study published in the Journal of Medicine and Life, aloe vera possesses natural cleansing properties that can help you maintain a clean and healthy environment. [14] Thanks to its moisturizing properties, aloe vera gel is also a wonderful ingredient to add to a homemade hand sanitizer. To prepare one, simply mix 2 parts rubbing alcohol, 1 part aloe vera gel and a few drops of a potent essential oil like tea tree oil, clove oil or eucalyptus oil. [15]
Aside from cleaning your hands and your home, aloe vera can also be used for food preservation. A study published online by Cambridge University Press reported that aloe vera extract can be applied as an edible coating to fresh produce to extend its shelf life. The researchers found that antioxidant-rich aloe vera helped retain the quality of fresh tomatoes stored in ambient conditions and even helped delay their ripening. [16]
Health benefits of Organic Aloe Vera
As a preparedness and survival item, aloe vera offers more than just having a wide range of uses. Thanks to its abundance of essential nutrients, you can also use organic aloe vera gel to boost your nutrient intake when SHTF and nutritious foods are scarce. Some of the nutrients that you can get from aloe vera are vitamins B9 (folate), B12 (cobalamin), C and E, and minerals like calcium, chromium, copper, magnesium, manganese, potassium, selenium, sodium and zinc.
Research also shows that aloe vera contains over 20 different amino acids, including 7 of the 9 essential ones that you can only get from foods. [17] What’s more, aloe vera contains an abundance of healthy fats, such as the omega-3 fatty acid, a-linolenic acid (ALA); the omega-6, linoleic acid (LA); and the omega-9, oleic acid (OA). Both ALA and LA are also considered essential nutrients because your body can’t produce them on its own.
Here are the amazing health benefits you can enjoy when you incorporate organic aloe vera into your daily routine:*
- Supports healthy cardiovascular function – According to a study published in JAMA, replacing the carbohydrates in your diet with either protein or healthy fats, such as those found in aloe vera, can help you support healthy blood pressure, blood cholesterol and blood triglyceride levels that are already within the normal range. [18] The ALA in aloe vera can also support healthy heart rhythm and heart pumping. [19]
- Supports healthy immune function – Unlike LA and ALA, OA can be produced by specialized cells in your brain to support the healthy functions of brain cells. [20] On the other hand, the OA that you get from foods like aloe vera gel is used by your body to support the healthy functions of other organs, such as your heart, liver and pancreas. In a study published in Nutricion Hospitalaria, researchers found that OA can also support healthy immune function. [21] Similarly, the aloe polysaccharide, glucomannan, has been found to support healthy immune responses. [22][23]
- Supports healthy digestive function – According to research, aloe vera contains compounds with natural laxative properties that can support healthy bowel function. [24] Meanwhile, the enzymes present in aloe vera, such as amylase, carboxypeptidase and lipase can support healthy digestion by helping break down carbohydrates, proteins and fats from food, respectively.
- Supports optimal oral health – Aloe vera contains an abundance of polyphenols, which are known for their antioxidant properties. According to studies, some polyphenols also have natural cleansing properties that can help you maintain optimal oral health. [25] In a study published in the Journal of Pharmacy & BioAllied Sciences, researchers reported that aloe vera gel can be used in various ways to support healthy teeth and gums. [26]
- Supports healthy, glowing skin – In addition to polyphenols, aloe vera contains other potent antioxidants, such as indoles, alkaloids and vitamins C and E. [27] Thanks to their ability to protect healthy skin cells from harmful free radicals, the antioxidants in organic aloe vera can help you maintain healthy, glowing skin. [28]
- Supports the body’s natural detoxification process – As one of your body’s main detoxification organs, your colon plays a crucial role in the elimination of toxic elements from your system. Organic aloe vera can greatly support this process, thanks to its abundance of compounds with laxative effects that can help clear your colon. [29]
- Supports healthy blood sugar levels that are already within the normal range – According to studies, organic aloe vera contains a variety of compounds, including LA and antioxidant polyphenols, that can help you maintain healthy blood sugar levels that are already within the normal range. [30][31]
Where to get lab-verified, organic freeze-dried aloe vera
With its great versatility and many health-supporting properties, aloe vera’s popularity is truly well-deserved. This is why growing aloe vera at home is considered by many to be a worthy investment. When SHTF, you’ll find plenty of uses for this amazing plant. You can use it as a natural remedy, a dietary supplement or an active ingredient in different kinds of household and personal care products.
But for people who can’t grow or keep aloe vera plants at home, the Health Ranger Store is offering an equally versatile and nutrient-dense alternative that will allow you to add this must-have item to your emergency stockpile.
Health Ranger Select Organic Freeze Dried Aloe Vera 200:1 Extract Powder is a clean, lab-verified product and a useful survival item that you can conveniently store for long periods. Sourced from the fresh leaves of Aloe barbadensis Miller plants carefully grown under strict organic standards, this premium aloe vera powder is one of the cleanest products you’ll find on the market.
Health Ranger Select Organic Freeze Dried Aloe Vera 200:1 Extract Powder is made from highly concentrated aloe vera extract that has been freeze-dried to retain maximum nutrition. Our high-quality product is 200x more concentrated than raw aloe, making it one of the most potent aloe vera extract powders in the world. Every gram of our extract powder is equivalent to 200 grams of organic raw inner leaf gel.
Health Ranger Select Organic Freeze Dried Aloe Vera 200:1 Extract Powder contains no synthetic chemicals, preservatives or additives. It is also vegan, non-GMO, non-China, GRAS-affirmed and certified Kosher and organic. As with every product at the Health Ranger Store, our premium aloe vera extract powder is also extensively lab tested for glyphosate, heavy metals and microbiology.
Support optimal health and complete your emergency stockpile with nutritious and versatile organic aloe vera powder!
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose any diseases.
References
[2] https://www.healthline.com
[4] https://www.sciencedirect.com
[5] https://www.superfoodevolution.com
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
[9] https://www.sciencedirect.com
[10] https://www.healthline.com
[11] https://www.sciencedirect.com
[13] https://www.allergy.org.au
[14] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
[15] https://www.healthline.com
[16] https://www.cambridge.org
[17] https://asianjournalofchemistry.co.in
[20] https://www.mdpi.com
[21] http://www.nutricionhospitalaria.com
[23] https://faseb.onlinelibrary.wiley.com
[24] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com
[25] https://decisionsindentistry.com
[26] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
[27] https://orgmedchemlett.springeropen.com
[28] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
[29] https://www.mindbodygreen.com
[31] https://www.worldscientific.com
