HER HIGHNESS, ALOE VERA

Transcription

1 HER HIGHNESS, ALOE VERA Various products and medications which contain the gel and juice of the unique Aloe vera plant have in recent years been widely available in pharmacies, drugstores, natural and health food stores, perfumeries... Millions of buyers from all over the world buy these products and use them topically or internally to solve or soothe different health issues. With the help of balms, creams and gels they can regularly or periodically care for or heal their skin, drink syrups and other beverages for their efficacy in alleviating symptoms and treating diseases, or experiment with professional help when it comes to cooking with the dried cubes of the plant s leaves. However, only well-versed users know that the modern man is not the one responsible for this varied and common use of Aloe vera, but that the plant has been used in medicine and for beauty treatments for millennia. It was very valued by healers and pharmacists, but also the common folk in ancient Egypt, Greece, Mexico, India, China, Japan... Aloe vera was part of the regular beauty regimes of the beautiful queens of Egypt Nefertiti and Cleopatra, and the people of Egypt considered it the plant of immortality. Aloa vera was also used to treat wounds by the soldiers of Alexander the Great and the sailors of Christopher Columbus. Aloe vera has for its benefits been proclaimed miraculous since ancient times, but its name was given to it for its specific appearance. Botanists describe it as a short-stemmed or stemless succulent plant with about twenty thick and fleshy leaves, up to half a meter long and with serrated edges, while the flowers are yellow, tall and tubular. Its fruits contain numerous seeds. Studies have shown that it was cultivated first in northern Africa and that its name is derived from the Arabic word Alloeh which means shiny, bitter substance. Vera, a part of its current full name, means true in Latin, since even more than 2000 years ago it was considered to be a universal cure by Greek scientists. It s long been known that the plant thrives in dry and sunny regions of Africa (in the extreme north and south), Asia, Americas, Europe and Australia. In current times, however, experts in Aloe vera use the Latin name Aloe barbadensis miller. Its name in Croatian is Aloja. The plant is assigned to the family Liliaceae (the lily family) and the group of leafy succulents (cacti). The plant s stem, leaves and root have the ability to gather and retain water which is then stored in its thick leaves in three layers. The first one is the inner layer with a gel that contains 99% water and the rest are amino acids, glucomannans, lipids, vitamins and sterols. The middle layer is yellowish and made of latex with anthraquinones and glycosides. The outer thick layer of 15 to 20 cells is called the rind, has a protective function and synthesizes carbohydrates and proteins. The inside of the rind is made of vascular bundles responsible for the transportation and conservation of substances such as water and starch. Cres Lošinj archipelago

2 A WEALTH OF COMPONENTS Numerous studies have confirmed that Aloe vera contains 75 potentially active substances, such as vitamins, minerals, enzymes, saponins, lignin, amino acids and salicylic acid. Vitamins vitamin A (beta-caroten), C and E which are antioxidants, and vitamin B 12, folic acid and choline. Antioxidants neutralize harmful free radicals, while choline is necessary for good memory and brain functioning. Enzymes the plant contains alkaline phosphatase, amylase, carboxypeptidase, bradykinase, catalase, cellulase, lipase and peroxidase. For instance, bradykinase soothes inflammation when applied to the skin topically, while others help with the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins and lipids. Minerals phosphate, calcium, chromium, magnesium, manganese, copper, zinc, selenium and sodium, which are all important for the proper functioning of diverse enzyme systems in different metabolic pathways. Some of them are strong antioxidants (especially zinc, selenium copper). Sugars or carbohydrates the plant contains monosaccharides such as fructose and glucose, and oligo and polysaccharides, such as glucomannans and polymannose. Sugars are contained in the mucilage layer of the plant, and are known as mucopolysaccharides. The most prominent monosaccharide is mannose-6-phosphate, while the most common polysaccharides in Aloa are called glucomannans (beta-(1,4)-acetylated mannan). A promising glucomannan has also been found. Recently, glycoproteins, called alprogen and novel anti-inflammatory compound, C-glucosyl chromone, which have antiallergic properties have been isolated from the gel of Aloa vera. Anthraquinones 12 anthraquinones which are in actuality phenolic compounds known as laxatives, but also have other benefits. For example, aloin and emodin have antiviral, antibacterial and analgesic effects. Other ingredients this miraculous plant has been found to contain 22 amino acids. Out of twenty amino acids that a human body needs, Aloe has 19, as well as seven out of the eight essential amino acids. It also contains salicylic acid which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, as well as lignin which is considered an inert substance, but is also an ingredient of skin care products (topical application) which increases absorption. Thus it enhances the penetrative effect of other ingredients. These are, actually, saponins, soapy substances (there are about three percent of them in the gel) and also have antiseptic and cleansing properties. MEDICINAL PROPERTIES Healing properties Glucomannan is a mannose-rich polysaccharide which, with small quantities of gibberellin (a growth hormone), interacts with growth factor receptors on the fibroplast, thus stimulating its proliferation. Therefore, after the topical or oral application of Aloa vera gel, a significant increase of collagen synthesis occurs.

3 Furthermore, it not only increases the collagen content in the wound, it also changes the composition of collagen (stimulating the production of collagen type III) and increases the degree of collagen cross linking which enables accelerated wound healing. An increased synthesis of hyaluronic acid and dermatan sulfate in the granulation tissue of a healing wound has been reported, which helps make scars far less noticeable. Effects on skin exposure to UV and gamma radiation Studies have shown that Aloe vera has a protective effect against radiation damage to the skin. The exact mechanism of the effect is not fully known, but after the application of the gel an antioxidant protein, called metallothionein, which captures hydroxyl radicals and thus prevents the suppression of protective enzymes superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, is generated in the skin. This reduces the production and release of skin keratinocyte-derived immunosuppressive cytokines, such as interleukin-10 (IL-10) and prevents the suppression of ultraviolet radiation-induced delayed-type hypersensitivity. Anti-inflammatory effects Aloe vera inhibits the cyclooxygenase pathway and reduces the production of prostaglandin E2 from arachidonic acid. Recently, the new anti-inflammatory compound called C-glucosyl chromone was isolated from gel extracts. Effect on the immune system and allergies Alprogen inhibits the influx of calcium into mast cells (cells responsible for allergic reactions) and thus inhibits the release of histamine and leukotriene from mast cells via the reaction of antigens-antibodies. During one of the conducted studies mice were implanted with murine sarcoma cells. After a preparation of Aloe vera was injected, acemannan, which it contains, stimulated the synthesis and release of interleukin-19 (IL-19) and tumor necrosis factors from macrophages as well. This initiated an immune attack which led to the necrosis and regression of the cancerous cells. Furthermore, it has been reported that several compounds of low molecular weight have the ability to inhibit the release of reactive free radicals from activated white blood cells neutrophils. Laxative effects Anthraquinones in Aloe are a potent laxative which increases intestinal water content, stimulates the secretion of mucus and increases intestinal peristalsis. Thus, the stool is not sticky nor soft, which makes bowel movement easier. Antiviral and potential antitumor activity These activities may be due to indirect or direct effects. Indirect effect is linked to the stimulation of the immune system, while the direct effect is linked with the effect of substances present in Aloe vera anthraquinones. For instance, the anthraquinone aloin inactivates various viruses such as herpes, influenza and varicella. Recent studies have shown that the polysaccharide fraction in Aloe inhibits the binding of benzopyrene to primary rat hepatocytes, thereby preventing the formation of potentially dangerous benzopyrene which can bind itself with DNA and initiate the formation and growth of tumor cells. It has also been reported that the induction of the enzyme which protects our cells, glutathione S-transferase, and the inhibition of tumor promoters indicates a possible benefit of using Aloe vera in cancer prevention. Moisturizing and anti-aging effect Mucopolysaccharides in Aloe help in binding moisture into the skin. Aloe stimulates the synthesis and strengthening of skin fibroblast which produces collagen and elastin fibers, making the skin more elastic and less wrinkled. It also has a cohesive effect on the superficial epidermal cells by sticking them together, whcih softens the skin. The amino acids soften hardened skin cells, while zinc, present in the plant, tightens pores. Its moisturizing effect on dry skin has also been studied during cosmetic treatments and the topical application of Aloe vera to skin which became dry due to working conditions and prolonged exposure.

4 There has been great interest in developing protective gloves for occupational use which would be impregnated with the Aloe vera gel. It has also been reported that the Aloe vera gel has an anti-acne effect. Antiseptic effect Aloe vera contains six agents salicylic acid, luepol, cinnamonic acid, sulfur, phenols and urea which all have inhibitory action on fungi, pathogenic bacteria and viruses. MEDICAL CONDITIONS AND DISEASES Even though Aloe vera has been recommended for soothing, preventing and treating certain diseases and medical conditions for centuries, scientists recommend caution with its use. Products or gel from a recently cut off leaf are not a universal panacea and not for everyone, as it was believed in ancient times in certain parts of the world. Even though Aloe vera has a wide spectrum of use and benefits (some of them even mystical and others magical), it's always best to trust those effects which have been confirmed by scientific research and unquestionable results of traditional medicine. Use Aloe vera is used today for: psoriasis, genital herpes, seborrheic dermatitis, complications due to diabetes type 2, HIV skin infections, skin burns, wound healing (some studies have reported positive results, while others have shown less positive results), prevention of tumors, pressure ulcers, mucositis, ulcerative colitis, dermatitis from sweating, acne, constipation and stomatitis. It also helps with alopecia (hair loss), fungal skin infections, chronic leg wounds, parasitic infections, systemic lupus erythematosus and arthritis. Side effects The use of Aloe vera may cause burning and redness, especially in sensitive individuals. Allergic reactions occur due to the action of aloin and barbaloin compounds. Before use apply the cream, balm, gel or tonic to a small area first to test for possible allergic reactions or sensitivity. If taken for abdominal cramps, the product may cause constipation. The laxative effect may cause electrolyte imbalances (low potassium levels) and may even increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers must be especially cautious when using Aloe vera, since it may cause uterine contractions and gastrointestinal distress in the nursing infant. Interactions Application of aloe to skin may increase the absorption of steroid creams such as hydrocortisone, which reduces the effectiveness of digoxin and digitoxin and has a potassium lowering effect. If Aloe vera is used in combination with furosemides it may increase the risk of potassium depletion. The plant decreases the blood sugar levels which may lead to an interaction between oral hypoglycemic drugs and insulin. At any rate all products must be used under supervision of a health professional such as a physician or a pharmacist!

5 ALOE VERA FEEDS THE BENEFICIAL INTESTINAL BACTERIA The gel and gelatinous material in Aloe vera s leaves are rich with the compound acemannan, a water soluble polysaccharide consisting mostly of simple sugar mannose units linked by glycosidic bonds and of individual side-chains of arabinose and galactose monosaccharides. The above is important, since acemannan is an ideal prebiotic, i.e. an essential energy source for the beneficial bacteria in our intestines our microbiota. The results of a study by Portuguese scientists, published in December of 2014, validate the above, since they show that acemannan from Aloe vera can be considered responsible for the plant s beneficial effect on intestinal health and on maintaining the microbial balance. Why is that important for an individual s health? Because large populations of various bacteria (500 to 1000 species) inhabit the human gastrointestinal tract. Their number varies from about a 1000 in the upper gastrointestinal tract to a million or a billion of bacteria in the colon. The total number of bacterial cells in our intestines is ten times larger than the total number of human cells in a body. The formation of the ecological system of microflora starts with our birth and develops in step with various environmental factors during our childhood and adulthood. The specificity of a host s and his microflora s shared evolution is their symbiotic relationship. This confers additional survival advantages to both sides. Microorganisms in our body gain a habitat and nutrients, while the host gains improved metabolic capacity due to the processing of otherwise indigestible polysaccharides, the regulation of fat storage, the synthesis of essential vitamins (such as vitamin K, necessary for blood clotting), the metabolism of drugs and other foreign substances. Bacteria from intestinal microflora are today called the intestinal microbiota. They influence the availability and absorption of nutrients and the regulation of energy balance. ALOE VERA THE AYURVEDIC PLANT Many cultures have for thousands of years strived to improve the care for human health and the prevention and treatment of diseases. Ayurvedic medicine holds a special place amongst all the approaches to medicine since its one of the oldest medicine systems still in use. The plant that was and remains on the list of effective medicinal plants is Aloe vera, therefore it s not strange that the traditional Indian medicine describes it and its many uses in detail. Ayurvedic medicine is a holistic approach to healing which emphasizes the unity of mind, body and spirit. According to Ayurvedic medicine, optimal health is accomplished by integrating dimensions which define the human being, so for the success of such healing it s essential to first get to know the individual who is being healed. This was the opinion, many centuries later, of Hippocrates who established the foundations of today s approach of personalized medicine where the individual, the patient, is the focus, and all other activities are to support the best method to reach the correct diagnosis and choose the best therapy. Each patient has to be counseled appropriately and motivated to cooperate, and his health condition and lifestyle have to be monitored.

6 Ayurvedic medicine had a significant impact on Greek and before that on Egyptian medicine. Furthermore, it resonated with Chinese medicine for its use of acupuncture and medicinal herbs with beneficial pharmacological activities. Traditional medicine in Africa and South America also uses local herbs which have therapeutic effects. Ancient tribes of today s Mexico used the gel of a cut off Aloe vera leaf to treat wounds and for food. We are only getting acquainted with the various possibilities of this plant s medicinal use. Hopefully, the numerous contradictions about the use of Aloe vera for cooking will soon be resolved and new knowledge about its benefits gained. ALOE VERA ON THE MENU Scientists no longer consider Aloe vera interesting only for its therapeutic effects, but for its use in the kitchen as well. This has been implied by results obtained until now; in future the mucous and gelatinous material found in the plant s leaves will be used as prebiotics to develop new functional food. However, well-versed culinary experts know that this miraculous plant rich in biologically active compounds is frequently used in traditional Indian cuisine, especially in the south of that country. Some daring modern cuisine chefs at times also add the peeled fleshy parts of the plant s leaves to stews and soups, about half an hour before removing it from the fire. These additions improve the dish, but don t change its taste. We don t recommend any culinary experiments before previously consulting an expert or an experienced chef such as Adrijano Nikolić from Mali Lošinj. Aloe vera can be used to prepare delicious shakes or smoothies out of fruit, vegetables, milk or water with ice cubes. Several cubes of fresh, dried or frozen gelatinous pulp, i.e. the gel from the plant s leaf, are added to drinks to refresh and strengthen the organism. Moreover, oriental delicacies such as halva are being made today from Aloe vera, as is a syrup with crushed almonds, traditionally made all along our sea coast. If the plant is dried and cut into stripes it can be used for other dishes, even as a dessert or a snack for those who wish to enjoy healthy sweets. Even though there are over 240 different species of Aloe, only a small number of those are edible. These species are used in pharmacotherapy. For that reason, make sure to consult an expert before using parts of the plant for food or drinks. Author: dr. sc. Donatella Verbanac