Aloe vera is an amazing, versatile plant. It is a hardy plant that can take some neglect. I once left mine in the kitchen window for the winter and forgot to water it most of the time.

Here are some of the benefits to growing aloe in your home.

Cleaner Air

NASA found that aloe is particularly good at removing formaldehyde, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide from your home. I am planning a post on air cleansing plants in the future.

Earthship notes:

“When the amount of toxins in the air have exceeded healthy amounts the leaves on the Aloe plant become spotted, signaling for help…. One pot of aloe is equal to nine biological air cleaners.”

Find more information on plants that clean the air in your home here.

A Better Night’s Sleep

Aloe releases more oxygen at night which can help you sleep better.

Feeling the Burn

From sun burns to cooking burns, aloe is great at soothing burns thanks to analgesic properties. It contains enzymes that increase blood circulation to the area, as well as reducing inflammation. It helps skin heal and regenerate. It has been shown to have antibacterial qualities, which can help prevent infection.

It should be noted that aloe allergies are rare, but if you have never used it before, you should test a small bit on a small area of skin to be sure that you will not react.

Aloe Juice

I will admit, I have only tried this once, but there are great benefits to consuming aloe vera juice.
*I am not a health care provider, as with any supplements you should consult your health care provider.*
It is said to aid digestion, help balance pH, boost your immune system and reduce inflammation.

Beauty

Aloe is great for your skin and hair, even if it is not burned! In addition to increase circulation, helping to balance, reducing inflammation, and the antibactirial qualities, it is also full of nutrients and antioxididants.

Because of the properties mentioned above, it is good for acne, eczema & psoriasis. The antioxidants help reduce the appearance of scars and wrinkles and helps skin repair itself from sun damage.

The boost in circulation that it gives helps regenerate skin, and it contains enzymes that help get rid of dead skin.

It is great for cold sores, and safe to ingest. It helps with bug bites and dry skin as well.

It helps balance your scalp’s pH, is a great nourishing treatment for hair, helps rid scaple of dead skin, nourish hair, and soothes itching.

I use it in my Detangling Spray.

Do you grow aloe? How do you use it?