Aloe vera is very present in the composition of skincare products under its INCI name “Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice”. This is due to the numerous virtues of its gel for the well-being of the skin. The use of aloe vera can be extended to the problems of heavy legs. Discover in this article the properties of this ingredient and how it can be used to relieve this issue.
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Heavy Legs: Does Aloe Vera Help Improve Blood Circulation?
Summary
- Heavy Legs: What Causes Them?
- Aloe Vera Gel, an Ally To Relieve Heavy Legs?
- How To Use Aloe Vera Gel as Heavy Legs Treatment?
- Sources
Published March 12, 2024,
by
Pauline, Head of Scientific Communication
—
5 min read
Topics:
Heavy Legs: What Causes Them?
Heavy legs are characterized by a sensation of pain in the lower limbs, particularly in the calves. The latter become tense and are sensitive to fatigue. These sensations of discomfort tend to increase throughout the day and are aggravated by heat, prolonged standing, wearing tight clothing or the approach of menstruation for some women. Conversely, regular exercise, cold weather and regular massage sessions reduce the sensation of heavy legs.
The natural cause of heavy legs is venous insufficiency, i.e., poor venous return. Unlike the arteries, the walls of the veins are devoid of muscle fibers. The circulating blood must therefore be helped to counteract gravity and flow back to the heart. The pressure of the soles of the feet and the contraction of the calf muscles normally allow this return. However, when the veins lose elasticity or the valves, which prevent the blood from flowing backwards, are less efficient, microcirculation slows down. Blood then stagnates in the lower limbs, causing cramps, tingling and itching. The causes of venous insufficiency are numerous: age, overweight, sedentary lifestyle, heredity, etc.
Another consequence of the phenomenon of heavy legs is a swelling of the feet and ankles, called edema. When it is not too advanced, it can naturally reabsorb and deflate during the night. Walking, elevating the legs or wearing compression stockings can help it disappear.
Aloe Vera Gel, an Ally To Relieve Heavy Legs?
The lower limbs contain a vast network of blood vessels. Sensations of heavy legs appear when the blood circulation in these vessels is disturbed, and it stagnates at the level of the legs.
The use of aloe vera gel helps to alleviate these problems. According to a study conducted on rats, the topical application of this botanical extract has a vasoconstrictor effect, increasing blood pressure and stimulating blood circulation. The stagnation of this last in the lower limbs is thus attenuated. Moreover, the molecule of acemannan contained in the gel of aloe vera stimulates angiogenesis, the phenomenon of growth of the new blood capillaries on the level of the dermis. This mechanism is activated by initiating the ATK/mTOR signaling pathway, involved in the proliferation of endothelial cells. These cells line the inner surface of blood vessels.
However, it is important to mention that
heavy legs can develop into more serious conditions,
such as varicose veins or permanent edema.
In this case, or if there is any doubt,
it is always best to consult a health professional.
In addition, the results presented here are from studies conducted on rats. To date, no studies have been conducted on humans. It is therefore not possible to make a true and absolute statement about the effects of aloe vera gel on blood circulation.
How To Use Aloe Vera Gel as Heavy Legs Treatment?
A morning and evening massage of the lower limbs can help prevent and treat heavy legs. To begin, coat your feet with a dab of aloe vera gel, then knead the soles of your feet with your thumbs, from the heel to the toes. Then continue by wrapping your thumbs around the lower part of the calf, at the level of the calf muscle. Then smooth upward to the knee. Repeat this movement 5 to 8 times on each leg.
The regular realization of this massage with the aloe vera gel makes it possible to stimulate blood circulation and to alleviate the feelings of heaviness in your legs.
Sources
PATUMRAJ S. & al. Therapeutic effects of Aloe vera on cutaneous microcirculation and wound healing in second degree burn model in rats. Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand (2000).
MAIA CAMPOS P. M. & al. Moisturizing effect of cosmetic formulations containing Aloe vera extract in different concentrations assessed by skin bioengineering techniques. Skin Research and Technology (2006).
LOIS C. & al. Formulation of Aloe juice (Aloe vera(L) Burm.f.) sheet maskas anti-aging. Pharmaceutical Technology (2016).
LI J. & al. Aloe vera: A medicinal plant used in skin wound healing. Tissue engineering (2021).
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