The Health and Beauty Benefits of Aloe Vera Essential Oil
Like many essential oils, aloe vera essential oil has many health and beauty benefits, this essential oil is made by combining the gel of the aloe vera plant with a fatty carrier oil. This plant oil mixture has the same basic properties of the aloe plant. However, as it is combined with a carrier oil, its nutritional properties are changed. The oil is usually made from the leaves or the gel, you can make your own in small quantities at home with this simple recipe.
Aloe vera is a succulent perennial that thrives in hot, dry climates. It is often found in North Africa, the Canary Islands, the Mediterranean, Australia, and areas of the U.S. The majority of the health and beauty benefits offered by aloe vera stem from its moisture–retaining, fleshy leaves—particularly the nutrient–rich gel contained within them, read on for some suggested therapeutic uses of aloe vera essential oil.
| Name | Scientific Name | Origin | Benefits | Caution | Storage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aloe Vera | Aloe Vera | North Africa, the Canary Islands, the Mediterranean, Australia, and some regions of the United States | Good for Lowering Risk of Cancer, Digestive Health, Cosmetic Uses, Prevent Scars, Heal Scar Tissue, Immune System, Constipation, Skin Health, Natural Deodorant and Antiperspirant, Hair Health, Heal Wounds, Aromatherapy, Massage | A patch test should be performed before applying | Airtight dark vial kept in a cool, dry place away from sunlight |
The History of Aloe Vera Essential Oil
Historical records reveal that aloe vera was an essential component in herbal medicine. Its use is mentioned in the Ebers Papyrus from Ancient Egypt and De Materia Medica by Dioscorides. The Ancient Egyptians valued the plant as a cure for infections, rashes, and burns, and called it the “plant of immortality.”
In other cultures, like in the Middle East, Greece and Spain, aloe vera was used to reduce perspiration and prevent body odor. Spanish missionaries frequently carried aloe vera with them as first aid in treating the sick.
The Health Benefits of Aloe Vera Essential Oil
Aloe vera essential oil is used in health and beauty products like face wash, body lotions, shampoos, hair gels, etc. The essential oil of aloe vera is obtained by extraction from aloe vera leaves and mixing it with other carrier oils like soybean, almond and apricot. Aloe vera essential oil contains antioxidants, Vitamins C, E and B, allantoin, minerals, proteins, polysaccharides, enzymes, amino acids and beta–carotene.
Read this PDF file for more detailed information about the Health and Beauty Benefits of Aloe Vera Essential Oil. Learn more about the plant source of aloe vera.
Therapeutic Uses of Aloe Vera Essential Oil
Aloe vera can be used to reduce pain, cleanse and promote wound healing, according to Nerys Purchon in “The Essential Natural Health Bible.” Aloe vera has confirmed healing properties for surface wounds, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM). Although the NCCAM notes that more research is required with regards to how aloe might combat healing in deep wounds.
Aloe vera contains glycoproteins which inhibit pain and reduce inflammation, and polysaccharides that encourage the skin to repair itself, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Apply one or two drops of aloe vera essential oil on the wound and bandage.
Aloe vera essential oil is made through the process of maceration extraction. First, the plant is soaked in the carrier oil and heated to a high temperature. When the plant’s cell membranes are broken down, the hot oil absorbs the nutrients and essence of the plant. Then, after a few years, this mixture is filtered so as to remove any plant solids. The end product is comparable to infused oil, and isn’t 100% aloe vera.
Pure aloe vera is obtained by macerating the stems and leaves that contain the gel. However, the essential oil is equally as useful as its gel counterpart. One advantage the oil has over the gel is its longer shelf life—about 8 to 10 months. Fortunately, it’s possible to make aloe vera essential oil in your own home. Here are helpful instructions on how to make an aloe vera massage oil infusion courtesy of We Love Aloe
How to Make Aloe Vera Essential Oil
What You’ll Need
- ½ cup of aloe vera gel (directly from the plant or from a health food store)
- ½ cup of coconut oil
- 2 to 3 drops essential oil of choice (optional)
- 1 bowl
- A pot
- Stove
Directions
- Mix the aloe vera gel (extract it properly if you are using a fresh leaf) with the coconut oil in the bowl. At a ratio of 1:1.
- Add 2 to 3 drops of an essential oil of your choice to the aloe vera–coconut oil mixture and blend well (adding another essential oil can give your aloe vera massage oil a pleasant aroma; recommended oils are rose, jasmine, peppermint, or citrus).
- Heat the mixture in the pot on the stove on low for about 10 minutes.
- Allow the aloe vera essential oil to cool.
- Once cooled, store in a cool, dry place for about 2 weeks.
- It can also be refrigerated to extend shelf life and health benefits.
- To use, simply apply to skin, and work it in like any other moisturizer.
Precautions
A patch test should be performed before applying to check for any allergic reactions. Always proceed with caution when using any essential oil as they can result in allergic reactions. As with any herbal oil, consult a skilled aromatherapy practitioner or physician before using aloe vera essential oil, especially if you’re using any type of medication, or are pregnant or nursing.
The chemical compounds in aloe vera can interact with certain drugs like laxatives, diuretics and insulin. The aloe vera plant can induce diarrhea, which will reduce your body’s potassium levels, this can affect the efficacy of certain medications.
Essential Oils to Avoid in Pregnancy
Women who are pregnant should use essential oils with caution. Some oils are best steering clear of altogether. These are: Acorus Calamus, Ajwain, Allspice, Amyris, Anise (Aniseed), Angelica, Apricot Kernel, Asafoetida, Cinnamon, Clove, Cumin, Fennel, Hyssop, Oregano, Thyme, Sage, Star Anise, Sweet Birch, and Wintergreen.
Never use essential oils in a humidifier, CPAP machine, or any other breathing device.
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Sources:
Health Benefits of Aloe-Vera
https://www.healthbenefitstimes.com/aloe-vera/
Health Benefits of Aloe Vera Oil
https://www.healthbenefitstimes.com/health-benefits-of-aloe-vera-oil/