• Published on: Dec 10, 2021
  • 4 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

What Are The Benefits Of Aloe Vera?

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What are the benefits of Aloe Vera?

Aloe Vera is a plant with "healing" properties. It's been known to heal burns, wounds, and other skin ailments for centuries now. The Aloe vera plant thrives in hot, dry environments making it well-suited to desert regions of the world which are also among the poorest areas of the world where less access to healthcare eliminates many injuries before they can get better on their own. The benefits of aloe vera are quite straightforward - lower infection rates accelerated healing time, and lower health care costs because aloe has demonstrated superior results when left untreated or without expensive pharmaceuticals that provide little benefit.

Aloe Vera helps to soothe skin during sunburns, lessen the appearance of scars after pimple/wart removal or laser surgery, soften dry skin on elbows and heels, reduce itching caused by insect bites/eczema allergies. Aloe Vera's antibiotic properties help control acne inflammation. The gel can be used as a cleanser for oily skin with mild acne due to its natural anti-bacterial properties. It is also believed that aloe vera assists in repairing unhealthy follicles which can lead to dandruff if left untreated. The soothing properties of Aloe Vera are useful for people who have an itchy scalp due to dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis.

Aloe Vera is a remarkable plant found in desert regions around the world. It has been used as a folk Medicine, as an English drugstore, as a native remedy for many conditions and diseases.

  • The Aloe plant's gel has been widely applied to burns and wounds because of its antibacterial properties
  • The gel is high in minerals such as magnesium, calcium, sodium, and potassium which seem to promote healing of affected tissues - There whether being a direct effect on tissue from the application or from the effect on inflammatory cells that arrive at the site
  • In addition, some nutrients might have local effects that are not mediated by inflammation. Thus again one of our reports shows that Aloe Vera helps with skin repair processes

Aloe Vera is used most commonly as a natural remedy for burns. It contains alo-emodin and carrageenan, the two substances that stimulate the productivity of scar tissue and promote faster healing. Aloe can also be used to help heal ulcers, athlete's foot, ringworm, and other skin conditions.

There is one type of aloe that we know really well — aloe vera — with its broad leaves shaped like a rosette on tall stalks. More than 2500 species exist in all, but they grow mainly in Africa and Australia; they’re found mostly near rivers or seacoasts where moist mud collects below tall trees such as those found at waterholes.

Aloe vera has been used for centuries to Treat skin problems, burns, and various other ailments. Some of its more successful applications include treatment for minor cuts and burns, sunburns, rashes due to eczema or allergic reactions, psoriasis prevention, and reduction of ear wax buildup.

It is one of the few plants that humans don't seem to be capable of hurting with the use (i.e., it's perfectly safe). And because it can grow anywhere in the world (even next to an asphalt road), there are numerous studies on its various uses including reducing nerve regeneration delays after surgery or neuropathy treatment, anti-aging effects on aging cells due to DNA repair properties (potentially useful for cancer prevention)

Aloe Vera is an herbal dietary supplement that has been used for centuries in many cultures to support wellness and balance. Traditionally, Aloe vera gel has been used as a topical application to promote the healing of wounds and burns, soothe sunburns, and relieve associated pain such as caused by insect bites or stings. It is said that its health benefits depend on your state of mind when taking it. "One study suggests that aloe vera may reduce stress hormones".

The future of studies suggests developing whole plant extracts with standardized properties (extract concentration, preparation methodology). The benefits of Aloe Vera come from the aloeride polysaccharide, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

Aloe is a cactus native to Africa and southern Asia, but it grows all over the world including much of South America. Aloes have been used to treat many different issues for centuries including stomach pains, burns, epilepsy, lacerations, and more.

There are two types of Aloe Vera - Planta or barbadensis- as well as four varieties: Milleri, Briggsiana, Needlepoint and Woodii. In studies on Milleri aloes there were no statistically significant differences in clinical efficacy among these four varieties with regards to reducing inflammatory markers.

Aloe vera has been shown to help with joint and pain relief, pimples, radiation treatment side effects, frostbite care, and hair growth.Aloe Vera is a plant that grows in arid climates like the southwestern United States and northern Africa for instance. It's most known for its "miracle" healing powers when applied externally to people with poisoning or wounds because it speeds up the healing process without having any negative side effects. The inner gel is used medically topically on skin wounds and burns as well as in some cases orally in order to heal ulcers in the stomach which can help give an injured person their appetite back so they can eat again.

Aloe vera is a plant that has been found to be quite beneficial. It can treat some skin conditions including sunburn, and some people even use it on their face before going out in the sun this way they know it's already protected. One of Aloe vera's benefits is detoxification and it can help lower the risk of diseases like cancer, malaria, and high blood pressure because of increased levels of red blood cells. Aloe Vera helps expel excess fluids from tissues by lowering inflammation and irritation, which reduces water retention in tissues such as breast tissue for women who want to get rid of excess chest fat without surgery or invasive procedures. The most common health benefit is the ability to soothe skin conditions such as psoriasis, impetigo, cuts, burns, and frostbite.

The gel contains polysaccharides that have been shown to have anti-tumor effects by interfering with cancer cell proliferation. The benefits of Aloe Vera are being studied for people who are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy. A major role of these treatments is to help remove unhealthy cells from the body however it also means they affect all of the healthy cells as well and can cause additional side effects like hair loss and chronic fatigue because the treatment inhibits cell growth in order to kill them off.

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Asthma

Asthma Symptoms in Adults: Early Signs, Triggers, and When to Seek Care

Asthma is often perceived as a childhood condition, but a significant number of cases develop or persist into adulthood. In India, adult asthma is increasingly recognised due to rising air pollution, occupational exposure and lifestyle-related risk factors. Unfortunately, asthma symptoms in adults are frequently misdiagnosed as recurrent infections, allergies or age-related breathlessness, leading to delayed treatment.

Understanding adult asthma symptoms is critical for early diagnosis, effective control and prevention of severe attacks.

 

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. In asthma, the airways become:

  • inflamed
     

  • narrow
     

  • overly sensitive to triggers
     

This leads to difficulty in breathing, especially during exposure to specific stimuli.

 

Why Adult Asthma Is Often Missed

Adult asthma symptoms may:

  • appear gradually
     

  • vary in severity
     

  • mimic common respiratory conditions
     

According to Indian Council of Medical Research and WHO data, many adults remain undiagnosed for years, increasing the risk of complications.

 

Common Asthma Symptoms in Adults

Wheezing

A high-pitched whistling sound while breathing, especially during exhalation, is a classic asthma sign.

 

Shortness of Breath

Adults with asthma often feel:

  • breathless during routine activities
     

  • difficulty taking deep breaths
     

This may worsen at night or early morning.

 

Chest Tightness

Many describe a sensation of pressure or tightness in the chest, which can be mistaken for heart-related issues.

 

Chronic Cough

A persistent cough, especially:

  • at night
     

  • early morning
     

  • after exercise
     

is a common but overlooked asthma symptom.

 

Symptoms That Worsen With Triggers

Asthma symptoms often intensify after exposure to specific triggers.

Air Pollution and Smoke

Urban pollution, vehicle emissions and indoor smoke significantly worsen asthma symptoms in adults.

 

Allergens

Dust mites, pollen, mould and pet dander are common triggers.

 

Respiratory Infections

Viral infections can trigger asthma flare-ups or reveal undiagnosed asthma.

 

Physical Activity

Exercise-induced asthma causes breathlessness and wheezing during or after physical exertion.

 

Weather Changes

Cold air, humidity and sudden temperature changes can aggravate symptoms.

 

Adult-Onset Asthma

Adult-onset asthma differs from childhood asthma.

Characteristics include:

  • onset after age 20–30
     

  • less association with childhood allergies
     

  • more persistent symptoms
     

  • higher likelihood of severe disease
     

Occupational exposure and hormonal changes contribute to adult-onset asthma.

 

Risk Factors for Asthma in Adults

Several factors increase asthma risk:

  • long-term exposure to pollution
     

  • smoking or passive smoking
     

  • occupational chemicals or dust
     

  • obesity
     

  • family history of asthma
     

  • chronic sinusitis or allergies
     

Women may experience asthma onset or worsening during hormonal changes.

 

When Asthma Symptoms Become Serious

Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing:

  • severe breathlessness
     

  • difficulty speaking in full sentences
     

  • bluish lips or fingertips
     

  • rapid worsening of symptoms
     

  • poor response to usual inhalers
     

These signs indicate a potentially life-threatening asthma attack.

 

How Adult Asthma Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis includes:

  • detailed symptom history
     

  • physical examination
     

  • lung function tests (spirometry)
     

  • response to bronchodilators
     

Early diagnosis improves long-term outcomes.

 

Impact of Untreated Asthma

Untreated asthma can lead to:

  • frequent attacks
     

  • reduced lung function
     

  • sleep disturbances
     

  • missed workdays
     

  • reduced quality of life
     

According to Lancet respiratory studies, uncontrolled asthma increases hospitalisation risk.

 

Managing Asthma Symptoms in Adults

Effective asthma management focuses on:

  • identifying and avoiding triggers
     

  • using prescribed inhalers correctly
     

  • monitoring symptoms regularly
     

  • maintaining follow-up care
     

Asthma action plans help patients recognise worsening symptoms early.

 

Role of Preventive Healthcare

Preventive healthcare helps:

  • detect asthma early
     

  • assess lung function
     

  • guide lifestyle modifications
     

Regular health checkups are especially important for individuals with respiratory symptoms or occupational exposure.

 

Lifestyle Measures That Support Asthma Control

Helpful practices include:

  • avoiding smoking
     

  • improving indoor air quality
     

  • wearing masks in polluted environments
     

  • maintaining healthy weight
     

  • regular, moderate exercise
     

Lifestyle support complements medical treatment.

 

Mental Health and Asthma

Stress and anxiety can worsen asthma symptoms.

Stress management:

  • reduces symptom frequency
     

  • improves medication response
     

Holistic care improves asthma outcomes.

 

Importance of Medication Adherence

Asthma medications work best when:

  • taken regularly as prescribed
     

  • inhaler technique is correct
     

Skipping treatment increases flare-up risk.

 

Long-Term Outlook for Adults With Asthma

With proper management:

  • symptoms are well controlled
     

  • severe attacks are preventable
     

  • normal activity levels are achievable
     

Most adults with asthma lead active, productive lives.

 

Conclusion

Asthma symptoms in adults are often subtle, variable and easily mistaken for common respiratory problems. Wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and chronic cough should not be ignored, especially when triggered by pollution, exercise or weather changes. Early diagnosis, trigger control and consistent treatment are essential to prevent severe attacks and preserve lung health. Recognising adult asthma early empowers individuals to manage symptoms effectively and maintain a good quality of life.

 

References

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Respiratory Disease and Asthma Studies
  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Asthma Management and Prevention Guidelines
  • National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Respiratory Health Indicators
  • Lancet Respiratory Medicine – Adult Asthma Outcomes and Management
  • NITI Aayog – Air Pollution and Respiratory Health Reports
  • Statista – Global Asthma Prevalence and Trends

See all

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