The wonder plant

Aloe Vera has unique moisture retentive abilities. It is a powerful natural moisturiser and seals off the loss of moisture. It also softens dead skin cells and helps their removal, leaving the skin smoother and brighter. In fact, it helps the normal functions of the skin by improving its capacity to retain moisture.

Aloe Vera also has an astringent action and tightens the skin, thus protecting it from early aging. It has shown remarkable results on sun-damaged skins, with its moisturising, softening, soothing and healing actions. Aloe Vera also has anti-oxidant properties and thus boosts the skin’s cell renewal process. Regular use of products containing aloe vera helps to delay the formation of ageing signs on the skin.

The real breakthrough came when the Aloe Vera gel was stabilised. It could then be used in cosmetic preparations for various skin conditions. It was found to be ideal, not only for the treatment of problems but also for general cosmetic care, to protect and maintain the good health of the skin and aid the regeneration of healthy new cells.

It is added to skin care products and lotions, like cleanser, moisturisers, serums, gels, masks and so on. We have, in fact, used Aloe Vera as an ingredient in many products, including cleansers and moisturisers. Our 24 Carat Gold range is processed in Aloe Vera gel.

The aloe vera gel or juice may be applied on the face daily and then washed off with plain water after 20 minutes. It helps to soften and moisturise the skin. In fact, used regularly, it helps to restore the skin’s youthful properties.

Aloe vera juice can also be used to treat varicose veins. Apply the juice directly to the area. It is good for any skin injury - sores or wounds and soothes the skin. Applying fresh Aloe Vera gel to the damaged area helps the epidermis of skin recover faster. The nutritive mineral zinc present in this healing plant is anti - inflammatory and prevents the skin from swelling.

Aloe Vera can also be added to face masks. Take one tablespoon oats or multani mitti, one teaspoon each orange peel powder and curd and one tablespoon aloe vera gel. Mix together and apply on the skin, washing it off after 30 minutes.

Aloe Vera can also be used on the hair. The gel may be applied to the hair and washed off with plain water after 20 minutes. It helps to soften and smoothen rough hair. It can also be added to hair packs. For a cleansing pack, take gram flour (besan), curd and one tablespoon aloe vera gel. Mix into a paste and apply on the hair.

For extremely dry, rough and brittle hair, mix well together one egg, one tablespoon castor oil, the juice of a lemon and one tablespoon aloe vera gel or juice. Apply on the hair and wear a plastic shower cap. Wash the hair after half an hour.