A proven skin care remedy, this Aruban export boasts a multitude of other health benefits
As Aruba's top export, aloe vera has long been an economic staple to the island and other Caribbean nations where it's produced. But what makes this little green plant so attractive to the rest of the world?
For centuries, aloe has been lauded as one of nature's most multi-purpose medicines. Ancient cultures have cited its healing properties (it's even mentioned in the Bible), and modern-day health experts are finding more proof to bolster aloe's position atop the pyramid of natural remedies and health boosters.
Aloe is also chock full of amino acids, minerals and vitamins, all of which are necessary on a daily basis to promote good health. Vitamins A, B, C and E can be found in aloe, as well as calcium, iron, potassium and zinc. Vigilant adopters of aloe vera as a regular nutritional supplement suggest drinking small doses daily.
Essential for the body's metabolism, amino acids are abundantly prominent in aloe's makeup, including 20 different types required by the human body to process food. Studies suggest that these properties also make aloe a great weight loss supplement if taken daily and combined with exercise to help stimulate the body's metabolic rate. Aloe is a rare plant in that it also contains a wide array of B vitamins, which are a vital and natural stress regulator.
Due to its health properties, studies have shown aloe to help treat arthritis, blood pressure, constipation, digestive disorders, high blood sugar and ulcers. Effective outside the body as well as in, aloe vera has been proven an effective treatment for many skin conditions as well. Many toasted tourists or fair-skinned beach goers can attest to aloe's magic as a sunburn remedy, but the plant is also a proven combatant of acne, eczema, insect bites, psoriasis, rashes, sores and other dermis ailments.
Dentists also recommend aloe vera as an oral health booster, as the same properties that make aloe effective for fighting infections and bacteria inside the body and on skin also apply to the mouth. Toothpastes and mouthwashes containing aloe have tested just as well or better than brand-name staples when it comes to fighting gum disease and other oral germs.
Aloe vera has been attached as a catalyst in more extreme health studies as well, with some experts believing it to help with the treatment of AIDS and certain cancers. The plant has also been linked to a longer life span if consumed regularly. In a study conducted by the University of Texas Health Science Center, a lab test showed that rats that were fed aloe lived 10 percent longer and had a lower incidence of disease than rats that were aloe-free.
Cosmetically, aloe vera has been cited for its anti-aging and moisturizing properties, making it a popular ingredient at salons and spas. Face and body masks containing aloe are part of popular skin treatments to help achieve a refreshed appearance or youthful glow. Hairdressers turn to aloe vera as well, using shampoos and conditioners laced with aloe to promote stronger, silkier manes for clients.
Aloe has become trendy in recent years for its health food store appeal as the ultimate all-natural remedy, but the mainstream seems to be catching on. Major drug store and supermarkets chains view aloe vera as a staple, whether it be in gel or juice form. Beyond the health benefits, aloe vera has also become a hit on the nightlife scene, as it's suddenly becoming burgeoning popular in cocktails. Resorts such as the Aruba Marriott Resort embrace aloe within the Aruba culture by offering their own signature cocktails such as Aruba Aloe Fantasy, Aruba Aloe Rum Punch, and Aruba Aloe Colada.
Aloe juice, aloe gel, aloe shampoo, aloe toothpaste, and now aloe cocktails? It seems that from head to toe, aloe vera is truly a life-altering supplement that can promote a healthy body, lifestyle and social calendar. While on an Aruba vacation, be sure to visit the Aruba Aloe Museum and Factory for even more information on this wondrous plant.
Erin Keaveney writes articles about Aruba vacation travel for the Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino.
