Aloe Vera (Aloe vera Liliaceae)

Aloe vera is a succulent perennial native to the arid regions of East and South Africa and areas along the Mediterranean Sea. Its greenish-gray, thick, fleshy leaves have jagged, prickly edges. The tissue inside the leaves contains a juice commonly used in folk medicine to heal wounds.

Parts for Use

Juice and Gelatin from the Leaves

1. Leaves are harvested from plants two to three years old.
2. Juice is secreted when the leaf is cut, and gelatin is extracted from the central part of the leaf, where mucus-rich cells are located.
3. Aloe is available in beverages and skin care products.

Ingredients

The gelatin from aloe vera leaves contains polysaccharides and lipids with medicinal properties. The juice contains anthraquinones, such as aloin A and B, which have laxative properties.

Use in Treatment

Aloe vera’s healing properties have been recognized since ancient times. Its laxative juice was historically dried and sold as a resin. The gelatin stimulates the immune system and has antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic effects, making it effective for treating skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. In the 1950s, aloe gained recognition for treating radiation burns. Today, its gel is widely used to soothe, moisturize, and treat sunburns, acne, wounds, anal fissures, and hemorrhoids. Mexican researchers found that aloe prevents swelling by inhibiting the movement of inflamed cells and chemicals that promote inflammation. Studies on rats indicate that aloe-containing creams can help manage rheumatic diseases and prevent or treat rheumatoid arthritis. Due to its potent laxative effects, herbalists recommend using aloe primarily for external applications. Some commercial products, such as immunity-boosting drinks with the laxative component removed, are suitable for internal use.

Cultivation

This sensitive plant can be grown as a houseplant but requires a minimum room temperature above 5°C.

Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Immune System Support)

1. Beverages (laxative component removed): Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

For External Use (Wounds, Burns, Hemorrhoids)

1. Skin Preparations: Apply to the affected area two to three times daily.

Warnings

1. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
2. Internal use of aloe may cause diarrhea, potentially reducing potassium levels in the bloodstream.
3. It may exacerbate colon cancer symptoms.
4. Aloe should not be used by children, pregnant women, or breastfeeding women.
5. Avoid use if you have uremia or impaired kidney or liver function.