Introduction
Aloe Vera is a plant synonymous with several benefits to health and living. It has existed for thousands of years and the extent of its power is still unknown. Each day, scientists unravel new uses and qualities of the succulent plant. Aloe Vera is widely recognized for its therapeutic properties, uses in the skincare industry, contribution to health, and much more.
Yet another exciting use of this wonder plant is as an adaptogen. In this article, we will discuss how Aloe Vera acts as an adaptogen and the importance of this quality.
Adaptogen
The term ‘adaptogen’ describes a group of plants or herbs with a common, unique function. They are a recent but fascinating discovery in the health and living industry. Simply put, an adaptogen helps your body improve adaptability to physical and emotional stressors. They achieve this effect by ‘generating non-specific resistance’.
Adaptogens work specifically with the adrenal system because it controls the hormones that manage the body’s resistance to stress, anxiety, fatigue, and others. Think of them as good pills that can make everything better just by swallowing them.
It is important to know adaptogens are natural substances, such as some herbs and plants. They are suitable for people of any age and work naturally with the body. Aside from Aloe Vera plants, other adaptogens include:
Amla
Cordyceps
Holy basil
Maca
Rhodiola
Ashwagandha
Kava Kava
Ginseng
Astragalus
The list of plants with adaptogenic properties is endless. For a plant or herb to be considered as an adaptogen, it must meet the following criteria;
The herb must not add stress to the body
The herb must have a non-specific effect. This means it should support the entire body systems and offer all-around benefits to the body.
The herb must benefit the body without causing harm or side effects
Aloe Vera meets each criterion perfectly and is considered one of the most prominent adaptogens.
The Mystery behind Adaptogens
Adaptogens were first introduced as a concept decades ago, precisely in 1957. A Russian Toxicologist, Nikolay Lazarev first used the term to describe any substance that enhances a ‘state of non-specific resistance’ during stress. Lazarev based this concept on Hans Selye’s theory of Stress and Adaptation Syndrome. The theory introduced three stages of stress and adaptation:
Alarm phase
Phase of resistance
Phase of exhaustion
In simpler terms, the three stages explain the normal human response to stress or a stressor. There’s the alarm phase, where the stressor is first introduced to the person. Anyone would respond with an initial fear or alarm, then move on to resistance which may either succeed or fail. Then, there is exhaustion.
Lazarev’s research had shown him that external substances could help people improve their resistance or adaptability to the stress.
After this time, more direct definitions of adaptogens were developed. Some referred to adaptogens as substances that ‘normalize the body and strengthened systems compromised by stress’.
Another definition called adaptogens ‘innocuous agents that use non-specific means to increase resistance against physical, biological, psychological, and chemical factors’.
Studies are still being carried out to fully evaluate the concept of adaptogens. However, sustainable conclusions have been made that show how adaptogens can highly benefit the body.
Aloe Vera as an Adaptogenic Substance
Anyone would be excited at the thought of having a natural way to develop resistance to stress. None of us needs the pressing effects of stressors or the feeling of dread and confusion they bring. Thankfully, the multitasking plant, Aloe Vera has all the solutions.
Research has been carried out in the past on living subjects to draw conclusions on the significance of Aloe Vera as an adaptogen. The results clearly showed that the plant actively increased resistance or adaptability to stress. This reduced the effects of the stressor and sometimes eliminated them altogether. Here are the ways by which Aloe Vera does this:
The Immune System
Most stressors directly affect the body’s immune system. Mild depression can make you fall sick, and other physical or biological stressors could induce an illness on their own. Aloe Vera prevents this by strengthening the immune system. It reduces blood pressure and calms inflammation.
Aloe Vera is known to contain twelve substances that play a role in soothing inflammation. This quality is responsible for the relief felt by rheumatic or arthritis patients after consuming Aloe Vera juice.
The disinfecting and antimicrobial properties also play a role in fighting harmful bacteria in the body. With Aloe Vera, you can easily overcome stress and adapt quickly if needed. This wonder plant is perfectly suited to assist the body in defence against physical, biological, and environmental stressors.
The Skin
Having wounds or burns on the skin can be highly uncomfortable and the condition can be described as a stressor. In the beauty and skincare industry, Aloe Vera is recognized and valued. The succulent plant offers vitamins, beneficial acids, and germicidal properties. The soothing effect of Aloe Vera makes it useful against any wounds on the skin.
More importantly, it accelerates healing when applied topically or even consumed.
Digestion
Poor digestion can easily lead to life-threatening diseases in the body. It is a source of discomfort and pain. Consuming Aloe Vera helps to aid digestion and restore the proper function of the digestive tract.
Aloe Vera contains cholesterol, B-sitosterol, campesterol, and HCL. These plant sterols are known for their ability to reduce acid indigestion and ease the symptoms of allergies.
How to Use Aloe Vera as an Adaptogen
You can enjoy this unique quality of Aloe Vera in several ways. The plant is available and inexpensive. It also has no side effects or age limitations. Anyone can use and enjoy the improved resistance to stress offered by Aloe Vera.
The Aloe Vera juice is easy to prepare and can be consumed orally with no complications. Mix aloe gel in water and drink or cut the succulent parts of the plant to small pieces and soak with water overnight. Drink the juice from it and leave the solid parts behind.
Use Aloe Vera in Salads
For those who are bold enough to keep up with their vegetables, eating Aloe Vera while incorporated into salads may be your best bet. Cut the succulent plants to pieces and add as a topping or primary ingredient in salads. This method of consuming aloe is popular in Southeast Asia and Indian cultures. The people in these regions are familiar with eating Aloe Vera raw.
Take Aloe Vera Raw
This may sound daring because Aloe Vera has a bitter and tough skin. Thankfully, you can consume the gel and avoid the bitter skin of the plant. Gently peel away this outer layer to reveal the soft, inner part. Rinse and eat raw.
You can equally enjoy cooked aloe with some simple and nourishing recipes. The important thing to remember is that Aloe Vera needs gentle cooking methods. Like most green plants, Aloe Vera releases water when cooked and loses its original size. You can steam the plant before juicing, incorporating in salads or soups. Cooking aloe changes its texture which may make it more appealing to some people.
Apply Topically
This is always an agreeable choice with Aloe Vera. Apply the soft, gel parts of the plants on wounds, burns, or any part of the skin that requires a topical effect. You would find the results are satisfactory and worthwhile.
Where to Get Aloe Vera
Most people grow the plant in their homes for ornamental purposes. A pot of Aloe Vera plant looks beautiful when placed in any room. You can always take out a piece of the plant for personal uses without worry. It grows back naturally.
If you don’t own a few pots of the plant, you can get started. Use well-draining soil or cactus potting mix. Detach a young clone plant from the base of the adult plant and use it as a seed. Aloe Vera is relatively easy to care for because it is a resistant plant.
If you have no intentions of planting, then you can get the products you need to use. Check out our store section for a suitable Aloe Vera product.
Stay Informed
Using whole or naturally sourced items are what improve the quality of living. They promote health and reduce the occurrence of illnesses. Aloe Vera is a wonder plant, and we can hardly grasp the extent of its uses. Keep up with our updates and posts to get more information on Aloe Vera.
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