The Benefits of Aloe Vera Plant on the Hair

Aloe vera is an herb commonly used in beauty products for your hair and skin. This succulent plant has many properties and uses that are legendary in folk medicine. Aloe vera can heal your skin, including your scalp. Hair loss is a concern for millions of people, and aloe vera offers a natural and inexpensive treatment for your hair and scalp. The benefits of aloe vera include promotion of hair growth.

Source of Vitamins and Minerals

• The aloe vera plant contains minerals, amino acids, and vitamins reports Aloe Vera Benefits.com. It contains vitamins A, C, and E and several B vitamins such as B12 and folic acid. Dr. George Obikoya in his article "Vitamin for Your Hair" reports B vitamins are especially useful for hair growth. Vitamins C and E are antioxidants that reduce damage caused by free radicals. Many of these vitamins also strengthen your immune system, which fights diseases that affect your hair and scalp, such as seborrhea, psoriasis, and eczema. Aloe vera contains calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, copper, zinc, and several other minerals. Dr. Obikoya also states that a daily dose of zinc and magnesium helps your hair grow strong and healthy.

Source of Amino Acids

• Your body cannot manufacture many of the amino acids it needs. Taking aloe vera, whether as a capsule or a drink, supplies the amino acids your body needs for hair production. Dr. Obikoya also reports that "Amino acids are crucial to the metabolic pathways involved in keratin protein (hair)." Your hair is made of keratin; without these nutrients, your hair growth slows or even stops. According to Dr. Obikoya, this leads to hair loss.

Soothing Properties

• Another major benefit of aloe vera is its anti-inflammatory properties. Aloe vera is well known for treating sunburn, cuts, and scratches. You can also directly apply aloe vera juice or gel to calm an itchy scalp and alleviate discomfort.