Aloe Margaritas, Anyone?
06-29-2007
There are many legends surrounding aloe (see HC 060371.331 for a metanalysis on aloe's use in burn healing) including Cleopatra using it as part of her beauty regimen and Alexander the Great invading Egypt and Africa in order to obtain the plant which he supposedly believed provided continual youth. Aloe, a succulent that grows best in tropical and subtropical climates, has been used not only for burns and sunburns and as a beauty product, but also for other inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. In Ayurveda, aloe is used for the liver, spleen, blood, and female reproductive system. It has also been used in the treatment of diabetes.
The German Commission E states that aloe can be used for constipation due to its laxative effect. Long-term use may cause electrolyte imbalance, including potassium deficiency. Since the suggested dosage is in the form of aloe powder, the contraindications may not apply to whole leaf juice, but caution is still suggested.
Aloe's healing actions may be due in part to the MSM (methyl-sulfonyl-methane) the plant contains. MSM, an organic form of sulfur, is created as a byproduct of algae growth. It evaporates into clouds and when rain occurs, it becomes part of the food source. In the body, MSM makes cell walls permeable allowing for the release of toxins and cellular rejuvenation. Unfortunately, most people do not obtain enough MSM from food sources, so supplementation is necessary to receive any benefits.
For a refreshing way to drink aloe juice, especially during the summer, try the Aloe "Margarita" recipe below:
12 oz. aloe juice
2 tbs. sole*
2 tbs. lemon juice
2 tbs. agave nectar
Blend above ingredients together and then pour over ice to 16 oz. for a "margarita" on the rocks. Alternatively, blend ingredients with ice to make a frozen "margarita".
* Sole = A fully saturated solution of water and Himalayan crystal salt. The water becomes saturated with salt when the water can no longer dissolve more salt. At this point, the salt crystals remain solid on the bottom of the jar, indicating that the solution has reached its saturation limit.
Lori Glenn, Managing Editor |