As the dry season, or “el verano,” arrives, it’s essential to give your skin extra care. Clear skies, intense sun, drying winds, and ocean surf can all contribute to skin damage. However, having aloe vera plants nearby can offer natural protection against these elements.
The “Potted Physician”
Aloe vera, often referred to as the “potted physician,” is a cactus-like plant with long, green leaves filled with clear gel. Introduced from Africa to North America in the sixteenth century, the English brought aloe vera to Barbados to shield their sailors from prolonged sun exposure. Today, research continues to validate the exceptional healing properties of aloe vera. After years of cultivating aloe, here are some of its beneficial uses:
Soothes Burns and Heals Wounds
Aloe vera gel acts as a mild anesthetic, relieving itching, swelling, and pain from sunburns, burns, cuts, and scrapes. It possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties, increases blood flow to wounded areas, and stimulates fibroblasts—the skin cells responsible for healing wounds.
Eases Intestinal Problems
Aloe vera juice can effectively address various digestive conditions. It helps detoxify the bowel, neutralize stomach acidity, and alleviate constipation and gastric ulcers.
Reduces Arthritic Swelling
Topical applications of aloe can diminish pain and swelling associated with arthritis. Consuming aloe juice may also inhibit the autoimmune reactions linked to certain forms of arthritis, where the body attacks its own tissues.
Heals Psoriasis Lesions
Aloe vera serves as a natural treatment for psoriasis and eczema, often leading to the healing of lesions.
Treats Gum Infections
Rinsing the mouth with aloe juice several times daily can heal persistent infections. Blend the fresh gel of a leaf, excluding the skin and any water, and use it as a gargle.
Alleviates Eye Irritations and Injuries
Place a freshly cut slice of aloe over the closed eye, then open the eyelid to allow the aloe to coat it. This method is effective for removing small particles stuck in the eye.
Addresses Strains and Sprains
Aloe is an excellent treatment that can be applied immediately to cool, soothe, and reduce swelling of the joint. Blend the gel of a fresh leaf without water to make a poultice for the injury.
Relieves Lung Congestion
Aloe acts as a powerful expectorant when the lungs are congested. Blend the gel of aloe with lemon juice and water, and drink freely during the day.
Soothes Rashes and Allergic Skin Reactions
In tropical regions, skin issues like rashes and allergic reactions are common. Aloe gel serves as a natural first-aid treatment for these conditions.
Lowers Blood Sugar Levels
Aloe can be part of a successful program in treating diabetes. Aloe juice can be taken several times a day between meals to help heal the pancreas and liver.
Cultivating Aloe Vera at Home
Growing aloe vera at home is straightforward, even for those without a green thumb. Local nurseries often offer aloe vera plants, and neighbors may share young plants. Potted aloe requires sandy soil and watering once or twice a week. Place the plants in an area with good morning sun and partial shade.
Monthly watering with an organic soluble fertilizer is beneficial. Having half a dozen or more aloe plants ensures a steady supply of leaves for use. Young aloe plants, known as pups, grow around the mother plant and can be transplanted into separate pots to expand your collection.
Incorporating aloe vera into your daily routine offers a natural remedy for various health concerns, especially during the dry season.
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