Who would expect the dry desert lands of Africa to produce a plant like Aloe Vera? Even though the plant can withstand dry conditions and high temperatures, it is made up of rich moisturizing gel that soothes and heals. Aloe Vera is one of the most widely used herbal remedies and is especially suited for use on burns and bruises.

The healing properties of Aloe Vera have been documented by many ancient civilizations including the Egyptians and Greeks. It was often used to cleanse the stomach and loosen the bowels.

Aloe Vera, a bitter herb, promotes bile flow, relieves chronic constipation, heals wounds, soothes burns, helps expel worms, moisturizes, and can act as a sedative. It is useful in the treatment of dry skin and is safe to use on sensitive skin around the eyes. It is also used in the treatment of ringworm.

Aloe Vera contains enzymes that open pores and slough off dead skin cells. Regular use can greatly improve a sallow complexion. Aloe Vera is often used in cosmetics, lip balms, soaps, and energy drinks. Aloe Vera contains enzymes that are responsible for new cell growth, healing, and pain relief. The plant gel is great for minor burns, bruises, scrapes, skin ulcers, insect bites, rashes, acne, psoriasis, frostbite, eczema, scabies, radiation burns, sunburn, and reducing scar tissue. When the soft, pulpy leaves are cut or broken, the clear juice flows freely and should be applied to the affected area as soon as possible. As the gel dries, it provides a protective covering, relief from inflammation, and speedy healing.

Aloe Vera juice is sometimes used for various digestive problems. It can soothe colon problems, pancreas problems, and liver diseases. It is also occasionally used in the treatment of arthritis. Aloe Vera helps increase the body’s uptake of oxygen. It is even used in the treatment of skin cancer, HIV, hemorrhoids, and varicose veins.

Studies are currently underway to test the medicinal properties of Aloe Vera. Preliminary results suggest that the plant may be useful in building immunity.

Aloe Vera is a succulent that spreads by offsets. Leaves are thick and fleshy, usually light to gray green in color. Aloe Vera can survive extreme growing conditions including everything from arid deserts to humid, tropical jungles (although it cannot tolerate standing water or freezing temperatures). Aloe is in the same plant family as the lily, tulips, and garlic. There are over 500 aloe species! Aloe plants are often grown indoors. Water aloe plants only when dry and make sure that the plants get plenty of sunshine with some shade. Aloe will grow just fine in poor soil but must have good drainage and temperatures above freezing.

*Do not use Aloe Vera internally during any stage of pregnancy. Do not apply Aloe Vera to surgical incisions or deep wounds. High doses of Aloe Vera taken internally can cause severe cramps and vomiting. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy.