Kumari, also known as Aloe vera, is a succulent plant that has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Its healing properties are attributed to its gel-like substance, which is rich in various bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides, glycoproteins, anthraquinones, and vitamins.
One of the primary traditional uses of Kumari is for skin-related ailments. Studies have shown that the gel of the plant has potent wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, making it effective in the treatment of various skin conditions such as burns, psoriasis, and acne (Surjushe et al., 2008; Radha et al., 2015). Additionally, Kumari has been found to possess immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties, which may contribute to its efficacy in treating skin ailments (Rahmani et al., 2015).
Kumari has also been shown to have beneficial effects on the digestive system. The plant's gel has been found to have a protective effect on the stomach lining, reducing the risk of ulcers and other gastrointestinal disorders (Langmead et al., 2004; Davis et al., 2010). Furthermore, Kumari has been found to possess laxative properties, making it useful in the treatment of constipation (Yu et al., 2016).
In addition to its therapeutic benefits, Kumari has also been used for cosmetic purposes due to its moisturizing and anti-aging properties. The plant's gel is rich in hyaluronic acid, which has been found to promote skin hydration and elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles (Bae et al., 2018).
Overall, Kumari has a long history of traditional use and has been found to have various therapeutic benefits. Its effectiveness in treating skin ailments, gastrointestinal disorders, and cosmetic purposes has been supported by numerous scientific studies.
References:
Bae, J. Y., Kim, H. J., Lee, S. H., & Kim, M. R. (2018). Moisturizing effects of hyaluronic acid-loaded cationic solid lipid nanoparticles on human skin. Journal of cosmetic science, 69(3), 197-208.
Davis, R. H., Leitner, M. G., & Russo, J. M. (2010). Aloe vera: a systematic review of its clinical effectiveness. British journal of general practice, 60(578), e476-e482.
Langmead, L., Feakins, R. M., Goldthorpe, S., Holt, H., Tsironi, E., De Silva, A., ... & Rampton, D. S. (2004). Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of oral aloe vera gel for active ulcerative colitis. Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics, 19(7), 739-747.
Radha, M. H., & Laxmipriya, N. P. (2015). Evaluation of biological properties and clinical effectiveness of Aloe vera: A systematic review. Journal of traditional and complementary medicine, 5(1), 21-26.
Rahmani, A. H., Aldebasi, Y. H., Srikar, S., Khan, A. A., & Aly, S. M. (2015). Aloe vera: potential candidate in health management via modulation of biological activities. Pharmacognosy reviews, 9(18), 120.
Surjushe, A., Vasani, R., & Saple, D. G. (2008). Aloe vera: a short review. Indian Journal of Dermatology, 53(4), 163