Aloe, native to Africa, is also known as the "lily of the desert", the "plant of immortality", and the "medicine plant". The name was derived from the Arabic alloeh meaning "bitter" because of the bitter liquid found in the leaves. In 1500 B.C. Egyptians recorded the use of the herbal plant in treating burns, infections, and parasites.
There are over 500 species of aloe growing in climates worldwide. Ancient Greeks, Arabs, and Spaniards have used the plant throughout the millennia. African hunters still rub the gel on their bodies to reduce perspiration and their scent.
Extensive research since the 1930s has shown that the clear gel has a dramatic ability to heal wounds, ulcers, and burns by putting a protective coating on the affected areas and speeding up the healing rate.
The plant is about 96% water. The rest of it contains active ingredients including essential oil, amino acids, minerals, vitamins, enzymes, and glycoproteins. Modern healers have used it since the 1930s. Many liquid health treatments are made, some combining aloe juice with other plants and herbs. The juice is soothing to digestive tract irritations, such as colitis and peptic ulcers.
As a food supplement, aloe is said to facilitate digestion, aid in blood and lymphatic circulation, as well as kidney, liver, and gall bladder functions.
Aloe contains at least three anti-inflammatory fatty acids that are helpful for the stomach, small intestine, and colon. It naturally alkalizes digestive juices to prevent over-acidity - a common cause of indigestion. It helps cleanse the digestive tract by exerting a soothing, balancing effect.
A newly discovered compound in aloe, acemannan, is currently being studied for its ability to strengthen the body's natural resistance. Studies have shown acemannan to boost T-lymphocyte cells that aid the immune system.
Those wise to the ways of aloe healing keep this plant in the kitchen. When the leaf is broken, its gel is placed on burns to relieve pain and prevent blisters. Aloe may reduce inflammation, decrease swelling and redness, and accelerate wound healing.
Aloe can aid in keeping the skin supple and has been used in the control of acne and eczema. It can relieve itching due to insect bites and allergies. Aloe's healing power comes from increasing the availability of oxygen to the skin, and by increasing the synthesis and strength of the tissue.
Part Used: Aloe Vera "extract" is made by pulverizing the whole leaves of the plant. Aloe juice is made from the inner leaf.
Common Use: Aloe supplements can be used for peptic ulcers and for gastrointestinal health. Aloe has a moisturizing effect on the skin and is a common remedy for sunburn and skin irritation. Often used directly from the flowerpot in the treatment of minor burns and wounds. To make a salve; remove the thin outer skin and process the leaves in a blender, add 500 units of vitamin C powder to each cup, and store in the refrigerator.
Care: Keep in sandy soil that is well-drained. Potted plants need the filtered sun or full shade.
