You can beat inflammation and many chronic conditions by drinking the juice of an ancient, Biblical plant. The aloe vera plant has been used for thousands of years as a natural remedy. The gel from the plant soothes burns, while drinking its juice helps the digestive system in several ways.

"Aloe vera has lots of uses," said Kim Chang of the Baylor Aesthetics Studio at the Baylor College of Medicine. "It contains antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins A and C, and it is highly anti-inflammatory. It can help treat burns, acne, and dry skin."

Chang told the Baylor College of Medicine News that either the gel or the juice sparingly applied to the skin may reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

According to Healthline, drinking the juice, which is made by crushing or grinding the entire leaf of the aloe vera plant, has the following health benefits:

1. Alkalinity. When your body is too acidic, it's ripe for disease. To keep your body's PH balanced, eat alkaline foods such as leafy greens, root vegetables, and legumes, and drink alkaline beverages like aloe vera juice.
2. Hydration. The aloe plant is water-dense, says Healthline, so it is perfect to prevent and even treat dehydration. When you stay hydrated, your body can detox by flushing out impurities.
3. Constipation. Drinking aloe vera juice is an excellent, natural way to increase the water content of your intestines, which helps you pass stool normally. Aloe is also effective in keeping your gut healthy by promoting the growth of "good" bacteria.
4. Better skin. Topically, aloe vera gel can help treat acne and other dermatological conditions, says Dr. Chang, but drinking the juice is also beneficial. According to Healthline, it can help treat psoriasis and dermatitis.
5. Digestion. Aloe vera contains enzymes that help break down fats and sugars to help you digest these foods more effectively. There is also evidence that aloe can help decrease stomach and intestinal irritation.
6. Heartburn relief. Instead of taking potentially dangerous over-the-counter heartburn medicine, reach for a glass of aloe vera juice, which can help control the secretion of acid in your stomach, according to Healthline. New research suggests that drugs commonly prescribed for heartburn, acid reflux, and ulcers may raise the risk of many fatal conditions, including heart disease and stomach cancer, according to Medical News Today.