Aloe vera has been used for millenia for healing – its certainly not just a an attractive potted plant! Before we recognised its healing properties, the ancient Egyptians used the gel found in Aloe leaves for infections, skin problems, burns and as a laxative. The Arab traders took Aloe from Europe to Asia where Indian Ayurvedic physicians prescribed it for skin problems and intestinal and menstrual conditions. The plant is native to North Africa, Southern Europe, and the Canary Islands. Today, Aloe vera is grown in tropical climates worldwide. Although the extract of Aloe is almost completely water, about 1% of it is rich in vitamins A, vitamin C and vitamin E, minerals, amino acids, enzymes and proteins.
Availability Of Aloe vera
Aloe vera is available from most good herbalists and whole food shops as a 50g and 100g dried powder.
Uses
- As a gel, Aloe is used for wound healing with its antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties
- Aloe also is used for stimulating the immune system and collagen synthesis for healing burns and wounds
- Its anti-inflammatory compounds make it soothing for skin problems like acne and damaged skin from sunburn
- Aloe juice is used to help with digestion and improving the digestive tract and cleansing of the liver, kidneys, stomach, bladder and colon.
How To Use Aloe Vera
From lower leaves of the plant, cut off several inches, slice along the length of the leaves and apply the gel that emerges on to a clean, washed wound or burn.
Cautionary Information
- Pregnant women and nursing mothers should not take Aloe internally due to its laxative compounds.
- If you are taking any form of medicine consult your doctor before taking Aloe juice internally.
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