These are the sure-fire ways aloe vera can make you look and feel younger

Aloe vera is an age old remedy that’s been used for thousands of years. In fact, many of us have this plant in our gardens and ignore its spiky leaves – but we should really be taking more notice!

There are many ways you could be using aloe vera for your health and beauty regime that you may not have realised.

Here are 10 benefits of using aloe vera:

1. Moisturising properties

Aloe vera moisturises the skin and is perfect for any skin complexion, including those with oily skin. If you use mineral-based make-up, aloe vera acts as a moisturiser and is great for the face as it prevents skin drying.

2. Treats skin inflammation

If you have rosacea, redness or your face often feels sore, aloe vera gel is the perfect remedy. It contains two hormones, Auxin and Gibberellins, which work to heal wounds and inflammatory skin issues. Giberellin in aloe vera acts as a growth hormone stimulating the growth of new cells. It allows the skin to heal quickly and naturally with minimal scarring. Aloe vera is soothing and can reduce skin inflammations, blistering and itchiness, while helping the skin to heal more rapidly. Simply apply the gel from the plant directly on to skin and leave for 20 mins before rinsing.

3. Improves elasticity

As we age, our skin loses elasticity. Aloe vera leaves contain antioxidants including, beta carotene, vitamin C and E that all help improve the skin’s natural firmness and keep the skin hydrated. Apply some aloe gel to your face before bed and rub in. You can leave overnight or wash off.

4. Lessens the visibility of stretch marks and scars

The skin expands and contracts as needed but over time, the elasticity of the skin can be damaged, leaving stretch marks and scars. Aloe vera is a known remedy for healing these areas, and it’s recommended to apply aloe gel directly to the scars twice a day.

5. Helps muscle and joint pain

Apply aloe gel externally to ease muscle and joint pain. It’ll feel nice and cool, and give you some much needed relief.

6. Reduce eye irritation

Are your eyes feeling sore or are exhibiting signs of tiredness? Make this simple eye way: Mix 2 teaspoons of aloe gel in a cup of water. Rinse your eye with this solution, then more water.

7. Build your immunity

Drinking aloe juice regularly replenishes the amino acid deficiency in your body. The high vitamin content in it boosts your body’s immune system and self-defence mechanism.

8. Soothing aftershave

Both women and men can use aloe vera gel as an after shave. It reduces the irritation and inflammation of the skin and also works to heals the cuts from shaving. Simply apply straight after shaving and rub in gently.

9. Heal wounds

Aloe vera heals cuts and wounds, dermatitis and also insect bites when applied externally.

10. Get thicker, shinier hair

Because aloe vera is rich in enzymes, it can help to remove the dead skin which clogs the pores of the scalp and hinders the growth of new hair follicles. Aloe gel removes the sebum on the scalp and makes it super clean and strong. To see the benefits, add aloe vera to your hair after shampooing and conditioning. Leave in for 5 minutes then rinse.

Tell us, do you have aloe vera in your garden? What do you use it for?