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21st
Century Medicine: Aloe Vera Rediscovered
Excerpts
from the new book by Susan Ritter, RN, and Lee Ritter, ND
A
funny thing happened on the way to the twenty-first century.
For more than 4,000 years, aloe vera has been known for its
therapeutic and healing properties, but only in the last 100
years have scientists and biologists "rediscovered"
that this remarkable plant really does work better than some
prescription drugs.
The atomic
bomb of World War II introduced the people of the world to
the devastation of radiation burns. In their search for an
effective healing agent, scientists discovered that aloe vera
is a most effective treatment. Based on that research, aloe
vera is now being added to skin care products and health drinks
to enrich their healing properties.
The
Aloe Vera Plant
Aloe vera is a member of the lily (Liliaceoe) family, although
many people mistakenly believe it is a member of the cactus
family. Aloe vera plants are perennials, succulents, and xerophytes.
Aloe grows in water-scarce semitropical regions of the world.
Aloe
vera is in the same family as onion, garlic, lee, turnip,
and asparagus plants. There are more than 200 varieties of
aloe vera, but only three have overall medicinal properties.
The aloe plant is sturdy and has few natural enemies. Chemical
pesticides are rarely used (and never by Desert Harvest).
The mature
leaves are harvested every 68 weeks, and one plant yields
about 3 leaves each harvest. A single plant produces only
one 180-capsule bottle of our whole-leaf aloe vera each harvest
season. One acre will yield from 30,000 to 75,000 pounds of
fresh aloe per year. The most productive plantations are found
in southern Texas, Arizona, Florida, and Mexico.
Processing
Aloe Vera
The major challenge in processing aloe vera is collecting
and storing its juices without chemically altering the product.
When you cut an aloe leaf, it secretes enzymes that heal the
severed tissues, thus lengthening its usable time. However,
after a few hours, these same enzymes also begin the decomposition
process. The best solution for ensuring the maximum biological
potency of aloe is to process, stabilize, and preserve the
leaf within 3 to 6 hours of its removal from the plant.
When
the whole leaves of the aloe plant are ground up to make a
liquid, the juice is 99.52% water and excess fiber and only
0.48% other ingredients. That means the juice must be filtered
and concentrated in order to maximize the active ingredients.
When processed correctly (with the aloin and aloe emodin removed),
the resulting juice has no toxicity and has the same pH as
healthy skin.
What
Is in Aloe Vera That Causes its Healing Properties?
In the opinion of most reputable researchers, the secret lies
not in a single ingredient but in the cooperative action between
all of its different components. Studies show that aloe vera
contains a well-rounded number of enzymes, nutrients, minerals,
vitamins, and amino acids, including the eight essential amino
acids. Besides its nutritional components, aloe vera also
contains: polysaccharides (complex, long-chain sugars), tannins,
steroids, allantoin, apga, apolygol, organic acids, essential
elements, natural analgesics, antibiotics, and other valuable
ingredients.
So,
How Does That Help You?
If you have ever used aloe vera gel on a burn, you know that
it reduces pain and redness and speeds healing. Whether used
on the outside or inside of the body, aloe vera has the following
main effects.
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It
works as an antibiotic, pain reliever, and anti-inflammatory.
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It
helps to regulate metabolism and balance blood sugar. |
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It
carries 77 parts per trillion of oxygen through the bloodstream. |
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It
repairs tissue throughout the body, heals, and regenerates. |
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It
has great penetrating ability and is absorbed through
seven layers of tissue. |
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It
enhances the immune system and acts as an immuno-stimulant. |
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It
improves circulation. |
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It
works as a natural cleanser to purify tissues. |
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It
is rich in vitamins, minerals, and essential elements,
which contribute to the nutrient pool and cellular health.
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Desert Harvest does not make any health claims regarding any of its products. Even though we are committed to scientific research, we are not healthcare professionals. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. As with any good health measures, it is important for an individual to be under the routine care of a physician and to follow the directions of qualified healthcare professionals. The suggestions, statements, and products on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
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