Many people are familiar with aloe vera for sunburn, abrasions, burns, and other minor skin problems. But did you know about the nutritional magic of this succulent?
What is aloe vera?
Aloe vera is one of 400 species of aloe. Known in the scientific world as Aloe barbadensis miller, the plant’s name “aloe” means “shining, bitter substance” in Arabic, while “vera” means true in Latin.
The aloe vera leaf has two parts: a clear, odorless gel found in the innermost part of the leaf and the juice, which is bitter and seeps out when you tear or cut a leaf.
Read about 14 amazing benefits of aloe vera
In eight ounces of aloe vera juice, there are:
- 8 calories
- Less than 1 gram of protein, fat, and sugar
- 3 grams of carbohydrates
- 2 grams of fiber
The health benefits of aloe vera are associated with the wealth of nutrients found in the leaves. Here’s what you can reap from aloe vera.
What vitamins and minerals are in aloe vera?
First of all, researchers have identified scores of active components in aloe vera, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, polysaccharides, essential fatty acids, and more. In a recent study of the nutritional components of aloe vera, for example, the scientists reported they were exploring “the future of A. vera as effective antioxidants.”
Let’s begin with the vitamins and minerals found in this popular plant.
- Vitamin A: This antioxidant plays a crucial role in supporting immune system function, bone growth, and eye health.
- Vitamin C: Another antioxidant, it is significant for cardiovascular health, immune system functioning, wound healing, bone health, and more.
- Vitamin E: Offers protection against cardiovascular disease and assists with immune system function.
- Vitamin B1 (thiamin): Is involved in maintaining a healthy nervous and immune system and aids digestion.
- Vitamin B2 (riboflavin): Plays a role in energy production, nervous system health and is an antioxidant.
- Vitamin B3 (niacin): This B vitamin is involved in managing cholesterol, diabetes, and migraines, as well as promoting digestion.
- Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine): Assists with the function of serotonin and dopamine and is involved in the cardiovascular, immune, and digestive systems.
- Vitamin B12: Maintains healthy blood cells and is necessary for the production of DNA.
- Calcium: In addition to helping build and preserve bone and teeth strength, calcium is also involved in cardiovascular and nervous system function.
- Copper: Necessary for general health, supporting heart health, and preventing bone loss (osteoporosis).
- Iron: Essential for energy as well as the production of proteins and blood cells.
- Magnesium: Both a mineral and electrolyte, magnesium is essential for muscle and nerve function, regulating blood pressure and heart rhythm, and scores or other functions throughout the body.
- Potassium: This mineral and electrolyte may lower the risk of heart disease and protect blood vessels' integrity.
- Sodium: Another electrolyte, sodium, is critical for healthy blood pressure and nerve and muscle function.
Read about aloe vera and the immune system
Other nutrients in aloe vera
If you thought we were done listing the nutrients in aloe vera, you were wrong! Check these out:
- Amino acids: Twenty amino acids are found in aloe vera. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins.
- Anthraquinones: One dozen anthraquinones are found in aloe vera. One of them, emodin, has pain-relieving, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Note: When you buy aloe vera juice, this is filtered out and would only be available if you use the plant alone.
- Fatty acids: The four fatty acids in aloe vera have anti-pain, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory qualities.
- Polysaccharides: These are the main components found in aloe vera gel, and they play an essential role in supporting the immune system and fighting inflammation.
- There are also hormones, enzymes, and more!
How to use aloe vera
Aloe vera can be purchased as a gel or juice that you can take alone or mixed with juice, added to a smoothie, or made with gelatin. A suggested dose is 2 ounces and up to 8 ounces daily. If you are taking aloe vera to help with digestive problems, it’s recommended you take the juice 15 to 30 minutes before you consume your meal.
Bottom line
Aloe vera has components that can help support cardiovascular health, healthy digestion, immune system function, and nerve health. It also may increase nutrient absorption, balance stomach acidity, ease muscle and joint discomfort, and reduce harmful toxins in the body. One recent study has also shown that the leaf and flower extracts have significant antifungal activity against Candida albicans, Aspergillus flavus, and other disease-causing fungi.
Editor's Note: We are huge fans of aloe and all of its fantastic health benefits. We have partnered with Lily fo the Desert for many years to help educate you on the benefits of aloe. Check out their website to learn more about their products.
