• Enzymes – Some of the most important enzymes in Aloe Vera are: Peroxidase,
Aliiase, Catalase, Lipase, Cellulase, Carboxypeptidase, Amylase and Alkaline
Phosphatase. Enzymes help to break down food and assist in digestion. Some
enzymes help break down fats while others break down starches and sugars.
• Sugars – Aloe Vera contains both monosaccharides, such as glucose and fructose,
and polysaccharides. Polysaccharides are the most important types of sugars. They
aid in proper digestion, maintain cholesterol levels, improve liver functions and
promote the strengthening of bones.
• Sterols – Sterols are important anti-inflammatory agents. The ones found in Aloe
Vera are: Cholesterol, Sitosterol, Campesterol and Lupeol. These sterols contain
antiseptic and analgesic properties. They also have pain killing properties similar to
aspirin.
As Aloe Vera is comprised of approximately 99% water, all of these chemicals
are contained in the remaining 1% of the plant. Although this may seem like a small percentage to contain so many ingredients, its helpfulness has been proven to be significant. Dr. Atherton claims that this is due to synergistic actions. He writes,
“Synergism is defined as, ‘the working together of two or more drugs, muscles, etc.,to produce an effect greater then the sum of their individual effects.’”
Aloe Vera has the ability to provide essential nutrients, kill bacteria, viruses,
fungi, yeasts and reduce inflammation. Dr. Atherton claims, “Tissues that die and are renewed rapidly such as the lining of the gut, which renews itself about every four days, and the skin every 21 to 28 days or so, need a rich and ready supply of building materials to produce and maintain healthy, efficient cells.” A proper diet supplemented with Aloe Vera is an effective way to get these essential nutrients. Aloe Vera can also reduce inflammation to injured tissue. Inflammation occurs when healthy tissue is injured and blood begins to clot around the tissue to repair the injured tissue. Aloe Vera is a natural anti-inflammatory that is much more delicate on the human body.
The benefits of Aloe Vera have long been tested throughout history. It is only
in recent years that studies have scientifically proven many of the medicinal benefits of Aloe Vera. Perhaps the longer that scientist and botanists study the benefits of Aloe Vera, the more improvements it will create to human health and well-being.
Atherton, P. (1997). The Essential Aloe Vera. Newport Pagnell: Mill Enterprises.