Aloe Vera : Beneficial to Your Skin and Overall Health
BY BISSAM RASOOL
2021-AG-7007
Aloe vera has been a mainstay in traditional medicine for ages,
beautifying gardens and homes all across the world. This
succulent plant, distinguished by its spiky leaves and gel-filled
interior, has an astounding range of qualities that go well
beyond its aesthetic appeal.
The secret is in the translucent gel that is contained inside aloe
vera leaves. This gel, which is rich in vitamins, minerals, and
potent substances including acemannan and aloin, has been
used to treat a variety of illnesses.
A Calming Friend for Skin Health: Aloe vera’s famed
powers to cure and soothe skin are among its most well-
known advantages. It is a natural treatment for sunburns,
small wounds, and irritations due to its anti-inflammatory
and antibacterial qualities. Aloe vera has been shown in
studies to hasten the healing of wounds and may provide
treatment from psoriasis and eczema.
Beyond the Skin: Aloe vera has advantages that go
beyond topical usage. Studies indicate that it might have
anti-diabetic and anti-cholesterol effects. Furthermore, some
research suggests that it may help to strengthen the
immune system and support gut health. It is important to
remember, nevertheless, that additional study is required to
firmly validate these advantages.
A Word of Caution: Although aloe vera is usually safe to
apply topically, it is not advised to consume it as it might be
dangerous. Beneath the leaf’s surface is a yellow latex that
includes substances that may be poisonous and induce
cramps, diarrhoea, and other negative effects.
In summary: aloe vera is a fascinating plant with a rich
history and a variety of potential uses, ranging from treating
sunburns to maybe enhancing general wellbeing. One thing is
certain, though: this “desert lily” will always provide a healthy
way to live, even while research into its full potential continues.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative
Health: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4557234
/
Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-
aloe/art-20362267
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer
Center: https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-
medicine/herbs/aloe-vera
Recall that although aloe vera has many potential health
advantages, it should never be used in place of expert medical
guidance. Before taking aloe vera, always get medical advice,
especially if you have any concerns or pre-existing medical
conditions.
DEPARTMENT: PLANT BREEDING AND GENETICS
Discovering the Age-Old Power of Fennel Seeds:
BY SHAHZAIB SHOUKAT
2021- ag – 6861
A Natural Treatment for Contemporary Illnesses.
Fennel seeds have long been used in herbal medicines and
cookery due to their delicate sweetness and licorice-like scent. Beyond
their gastronomic appeal, however, is a wealth of potential health
benefits that make them an ideal ally in the fight against a variety of
modern ailments.
An Entire Record of Recovery:
Fennel has long been used medicinally, dating back to the times of
ancient Greece and Egypt. Its effectiveness gained it a place in
conventional medicine cabinets all across the world; it was used for respiratory problems, digestive issues, and even as an eye wash. These traditional practices’ possible mechanisms are now starting to be clarified by modern research.
Treating Digestive Problems:
A potent aid to digestion are fennel seeds. By encouraging the
secretion of digestive juices and enzymes, these qualities facilitate
digestion and lessen symptoms like gas, bloating, and constipation. This
renders them an invaluable instrument for the management of
ailments such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Comfortable Respiratory Problems:
When it comes to respiratory issues, fennel seeds’ anti-inflammatory
qualities really shine through. They can ease coughs and congestion
brought on by bronchitis, the common cold, and even asthma by
relaxing the airways. Their expectorant properties also aid in mucus
clearance, which facilitates better breathing.
Beyond Breathing and Digestion:
Fennel seeds can help with more than just these common illnesses.
Research is still being done to see whether they are useful against
particular types of cancer, although studies have suggested they may
have anti-cancer qualities. Fennel seeds are also being studied for their
possible benefits in controlling blood pressure, lowering blood sugar,
and even easing menopausal symptoms.
Fennel Seeds: Adding Them to Your Diet
Fennel seeds provide a risk-free, all-natural approach to perhaps
enhance your well-being, while further research is needed to properly
comprehend their benefits. You can include them in your everyday
routine in the following ways:
Assist with digestion by chewing on a teaspoon of fennel seeds
following meals.
To prepare a calming fennel tea, steep one teaspoon of crushed
fennel seeds in one cup of hot water.
For a hint of licorice flavour and possible health advantages,
season soups, stews, or roasted veggies with a pinch of fennel
seeds.
Conclusion:
Fennel seeds provide an intriguing window into the efficacy of herbal
medicines due to their rich and colourful history. Although the entire
scope of their advantages is still being fully understood by science, their
efficacy in treating a variety of illnesses and their simplicity of use make
them an appealing choice for people looking for all-natural remedies
for common health issues. Therefore, think about reaching for these
small but powerful seeds the next time you’re looking for a way to clear
your throat, aid with digestion, or just add a hint of licorice flavour to
your meal. Just keep in mind that you should always talk to your doctor
before starting any new herbal medicine regimen, particularly if you
have any underlying medical concerns.
REFERENCES:
National Institutes of Health (NIH): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35802574/
Mayo Clinic: https://www.loveandlemons.com/what-is-fennel/
Digestive Relief: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7847707/
Respiratory Support: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6072219/
Blood Pressure Regulation: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32510653/
Weight Management: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5770526/
Antioxidant
Properties: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10003022/
Antimicrobial
Effects: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10326323/
World Health Organization (WHO): https://www.who.int/ (Search for “fennel
seeds”)
American Botanical Council: https://herbalgram.org/ (Search for “fennel”)
