Aloe
(also referred to as...)
Aloe Vera, Aloes, Aloes Barbaddes, Cape Aides
Latin Name: Aloe Vera
Family: Liliaceae
Description
Aloe is a plant that grows wild in the vast African desert. It has now been widely naturalized and can be easily grown as a house plant.
The Aloe plant contains two medicinal substances. Aloe juice is collected by cutting the base of the leaves, while aloe gel is obtained by breaking off a piece of leaf.
Ailments / Situations Where Used
Aloe juice is a powerful cathartic (an agent that removes morbid matter from the liver, gall, and alimentary canal), and is very stimulating to the large intestine. It is often combined with other agents for constipation and is used for upset stomach.
The gel is used topically on burns, cuts, and wounds, and is one of the best Aloes to encourage skin regeneration.