ALOE VERA 101

Aloe Vera

Scientific Name : Aloe Barbadenis Miller

Basics:

- This plant originated in India & Africa, it thrives in a dry, hot climate. However, it is one of the easiest household plants to grow.

- The Aloe plant varies from 95 to 99% water, the remaining proportion is packed with an abundant amount of vitamins & minerals that work together to create a natural source that is effective in treating burns along with many other skin irritations.          

- The Aloe plant is long-lived, some species have survived for over 100 years.

- This "succulent" (aka "full of juice") plant grows without a stem but has thick leaves that may grow to be 2-3 feet. This plant resembles a cactus but is actually a member of the lily family.

- The Aloe plant produces two substanances: gel & latex. The gel is clear and found in the inner part of the leaf. It is most commonly used to treat burns and inflammation of the skin. The latex is a yellow substance found under the skin, it is known for it's laxative abilities.

CAUTION: Large doses of aloe latex can be toxic.

Growing it:

- Typically prefers full sun & sandy, well-drained soil (does not tolerate standing water). Although, this plant has been known to grow in a variety of less than ideal conditions. If growing indoors place in a sunny location.

- Use cactus potting soil mix, extra perlite, granite grit or if you have to use regular soil add coarse sand.

- For outdoor growing: In the summer soil should be completely drenched and then dried before rewatering. In the winter, the plant requires minimal watering, & soil should be completely dry before watering (1-2 cups). 

- To harvest gel cut the leaf down the center and then scrape out gel. When harvesting the aloe vera remove oldest leaves first.

Medicinal Uses:

- Anti-inflammatory, anti-viral & anti-bacterial properties.

- Contains fiber, B vitamins, vitamin E, selenium, enzymes, anthraquinones, polysaccharides, tannins, etc.

- Traditionally used as a relief to 1st, 2nd & 3rd degree burns. Aloe vera gel is a common remedy for insect bites, rashes, acne, eczema, inflammation, etc. Aloe vera gel contains high concentrations of anthraquinones, which are noted for their ability to rehabiliate skin tissue.

- The film that covers the leaves, Aloin, is commonly dried & powdered before being added to products solds as laxatives. If abdominal pain occurs, use should be discontinued.

- Aloe gel can be consumed internally to calm an upset stomach, but the skin & outer layer should be avoided so none of the laxactive properties exist.

Fun Facts:

- Aloe vera is traced back to early Egypt, it has been discovered on ancient stone carvings & it was used as a burial gift. It is known mostly as the "plant of immortality". 

- Aloe vera is rumored to be one of Cleopatra's favorite herbs, as well as the "secret ingredient" in her favorite cream.

- Although there are roughly 250 species of this plant only 4 are used for their health benefits.

Sources

Anicura. www.anicura.co.uk/blog/fun-facts-about-the-famous-aloe-vera-plant/

Garden Guides. www.gardenguides.com/91920-aloe-plants.html

The Garden Helper. www.thegardenhelper.com/aloe~vera.html

Gardening Know How. www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/aloe-vera/aloe-vera-plant-care.htm

Gladstar, Rosemary. Medicinal Herbs A Beginner's Guide. North Adams; Storey Publsihing, 2012.

Herb Wisdom. www.herbwisdom.com/herb-aloe-vera.html

Serving Joy. www.servingjoy.com/fun-facts-of-aloe-vera/

**None of these statements are intended to be a substitute for medical advice. Anyone who is on medication should consult a doctor before making any changes. Statements made are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.