Aloe Vera as an Herb

(Formerly A. barbadensis)

Aloe is one herb that could probably lay claim to being America's number one folk remedy. Aloe is a succulent perennial of the lily family native to Africa and commercially grown in southern Texas and Mexico. The leaf contains a gooey gel; the outer leaf tissue produces a bitter yellow juice, known as drug aloe, once a widely used laxative.

Aloe gel has been for more than 2,500 years to treat inflammation - and still is. The fresh gel is also widely used as a folk medicine for minor burns and sunburn as well as minor cuts and scrapes.

Modern clinical use of aloe gel began in the 1930s, but there was no conclusive evidence of its effectiveness. However, recent studies have documented that aloe gel does promote wound healing.

Aloe gel penetrates injured tissue, relieving pain and inflammation and dilating capillaries, which increases blood supply to the wound. This speeds up the healing process.

Aloe gel can be obtained from the living plant. It is an ingredient in many sunscreens, skin creams, lotions, and other cosmetics. Some products boast of aloe content but contain too little to do any good.

The topical use of aloe gel or aloe gel products does not usually produce adverse reactions or side effects. However, there are reports of skin burning following dermal abrasion for removal of acne scars. Rare instances of contact dermatitis (rash) have also been reported.

Culinary

You can also find Aloe gel in beverages commonly sold as "aloe juice". Aloe gel, mixed with water, citric acid, fruit juices, and preservatives is also marketed as "aloe juice", touted as a digestive aid or a remedy for arthritis, stomach ulcers, diabetes, and other conditions. Aloe juice comes in various concentrations; highly concentrated products degrade readily.

Taking more than the recommended dose of aloe juice may produce a laxative effect.

See also: Aloe Vera Juice Smoothies

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DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Some plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals. Some plants used for illness in the past have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.