Aloe Vera has a reputation as being nothing more than a folk remedy, but its rise in popularity in recent times has been equalled by severaltrustworthy scientific tests validating its success for treating various problems. In fact, its various healing uses have seen it hailed as "nature's pharmacy". It's also a brilliant beauty product, and the ease with which it is absorbed by the skin makes it perfect for use in aromatherapy and massage.

Aloe Vera remains best known as a skin treatment. Its astringent pH properties help balance the skin, while its combination of anti-inflammatory, anti-pruritic and anti-bacterial qualities mean it is easily absorbed with minimal irritation. It's also great for intimate massage; unlike some oils and gels, it won't irritate delicate mucus membranes. It can treat all sorts of skin conditions and fungal infections. At the same time, its cooling effect is a wonderful treatment for problem areas such as under eye shadows.

The keratolytic attributes associated with Aloe Vera mean it can make softer tough skin. Because of this, it's a splendid treatment for the discomfort and soreness that can occur in areas of the body such as elbows and feet, in addition to giving your skin a softer, healthier look. By tightening your skin and moisturising it, products containing Aloe Vera give you a fresher appearance.

Whereas many cosmetics actually clog up pores and dry your skin, Aloe Vera is actively hygienic. Its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties have led to its widespread use in beauty salons as an all round cleanser; because it sooths the skin at the same time as cleaning it, Aloe Vera causes less irritation than many facial scrubs.

Aloe Vera mixed with spearmint and applied under lipstick produces a tingling effect; a mild irritation that leaves your lips looking plumper.

Anecdotal evidence points to Aloe Vera as being an anti-inflammatory. It's a favourite with those struggling with arthritis as it cuts down the swelling around effectedjoints. It may further ease a few symptoms of common colds. The congested feeling one has during a common cold is not as a result of over production of mucus, as is sometimes assumed, but because the sinuses have become infected and inflamed. Aromatherapists use Aloe Vera as a base for mixing essential oils, as the anti-inflammatory nature of the material soothes the inflamed sinuses. For the very same reason, the product enables you to reduce the swelling and inflammation of recent cuts and burns. It can also help to lessen recent scars (i.e. those less than five years old).

The anti-puritic properties of Aloe Vera (i.e. it reduces itching and burning) make it a common treatment for sunburn. Of course, persistent itching can be a symptom of more serious problems and no cosmetic product should be considered a substitute for visiting the doctor. It can, though, relieve many kinds of short term irritation, e.g. itching resulting from dermatitis, pregnancy and psoriasis.

You don't have to purchase it off the shelf; Aloe Vera is a simple to use product, suitable for those home brewers who enjoy experimenting and mixing up their own washes and products. Many people have a tube of Aloe Vera about the place because of it is useful for so many things. You can use it when making your own salts, shampoos and gels.

It's not just about cosmetics - although that would certainly be enough - Aloe Vera is about making you feel great inside and outside.


Resource:

Take a look at the Base Formula website for a load of great Aloe Vera products. They are experts in aromatherapy and essential oils.

Aloe Vera cosmetics