Aloe vera is a thick, short-stemmed plant that stores water in its leaves. It is widely used in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical and food industries, and has an estimated annual market value of $13 billion globally. What are the benefits of aloe vera? 1.Contains healthful compounds 2. Antioxidant and antibacterial properties 3. Accelerates healing 4. Reduces dental plaque 5. Helps treat canker sores 6. Reduces constipation 7. Improves the skin 8. Lowers blood sugar Aloe vera is a popular medicinal plant that has been used for thousands of years. It is best known for treating skin injuries, but also has several other beneficial effects on health. Aloe vera is well recognized by its thick, pointed and fleshy green leaves, which can grow to about 12-19 inches (30-50 cm) in length. Each leaf is full of a slimy tissue that stores water, which makes the leaves thick. This slimy, water-filled tissue is the "gel" we associate with Aloe vera pr