Aloe vera is a succulent plant with a long history of medicinal use. With its mild and sightly sweet flavor, it is also a versatile culinary ingredient that can be added to many dishes.
Aloe vera gel is a natural remedy that has been used to treat a variety of health conditions. It is rich in antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. Studies have shown that consuming aloe vera have a number of health benefits, including:
Anti-inflammatory properties: Aloe vera can help to reduce inflammation in the body when eaten. It does this by blocking the production of inflammatory chemicals, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes. This may assist in improving symptoms of conditions such as ulcers and gastritis.
Antioxidant properties: Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease. Aloe vera's antioxidants can help to neutralize free radicals and protect cells from damage.
Healing properties: Aloe vera contains compounds that stimulate the growth of new cells. This accelerates the healing process while continuing to decrease inflammation.
Digestive health: This plant contains enzymes that help break down sugars and fats. In addition, aloe vera increases the production of digestive juices, which helps the digestion process and reduces constipation.
This cooking video may inspire you to find new ways of enjoying more aloe vera in your life:
Now, please see our easy and refreshing Aloe Vera Salad recipe down below!
Aloe Vera Salad
Ingredients:
2 cups mixed greens
1/2 cup diced, peeled aloe vera
1/2 cup diced cucumber
1/2 cup diced tomato
1/2 cup sliced bell pepper (red, yellow, or green bell peppers)
1/4 cup sliced red onion
1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Cut the ridge or edge of the aloe vera leaf. Divide the leaf into sections.
Wrap excess aloe vera leaf with plastic wrap, aluminum foil or beeswax wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.
Place the aloe vera section(s) into a bowl of water and soak for 10 minutes. After, peel the skin away from the gel with care. Discard the skin/outer layer.
Dice the aloe vera gel into bite-size pieces.
In a separate bowl, mix together the bell pepper, cucumber, lettuce, tomato, red onion, mint leaves, and aloe vera gel.
Add lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
Mix well and serve.
Enjoy!
References:
Digestion Problems? Here’s What Makes Aloe Vera Fit For Digestive Health. (2018, December 11). NDTV.com. https://www.ndtv.com/food/digestion-problems-here-s-what-makes-aloe-vera-fit-for-digestive-health-1960976
Hong, S. W., Chun, J., Park, S., Lee, H. J., Im, J. P., & Kim, J. S. (2018). Aloe vera Is Effective and Safe in Short-term Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility, 24(4), 528–535. https://doi.org/10.5056/jnm18077
Langmead, L., Makins, R. J., & Rampton, D. S. (2004). Anti-inflammatory effects of aloe vera gel in human colorectal mucosa in vitro. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 19(5), 521–527. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2036.2004.01874.x
Leech, J. (2023, March 16). Aloe vera: Eight health benefits. Www.medicalnewstoday.com. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318591
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2020, August). Aloe Vera. NCCIH. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/aloe-vera
R. Morgan Griffin. (2010, July 27). Aloe Vera. WebMD; WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/diet/supplement-guide-aloe-vera
Raman, R. (2018, November 2). Can You Eat Aloe Vera? Healthline; Healthline Media. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/can-you-eat-aloe-vera