Aloe Vera (Aloe vera)
Aloe vera is amazing! Though it is native to Africa, it is
grown as a houseplant in colder climes, and is one of the most commonly used
medicinal herbs. It is known as the “first aid plant”, for the clear gel within
its leaves heals wounds, is an anti-inflammatory, stimulates the repair of
damaged tissue, and reduces the risk of infection and scarring. It’s also
commonly referred to as the “burn plant” and this is due to the fact that it is
particularly effective in the healing of minor burns. It does this partially
due to the protective coat it places on the wound, thereby speeding up the
healing. Aloe is also very helpful with other skin conditions, such as acne,
psoriasis, and dermatitis. It is also an astringent and toner, and is therefore
commonly used as a beauty aid. In addition, aloe is very healing with
conditions in the mouth, such as gingivitis, sores, aching teeth, or receding
gums.
The yellow
liquid, or, ‘bitter aloes’, found at the base of the leaf, is used internally
as a healer of gastro-intestinal ills, such as irritable bowel syndrome,
ulcers, and other stomach disorders. The bitter aloes are also used as a
laxative.
For external use, slice open a leaf and take the clear gel, excluding
the yellow liquid at the sides of the leaves, and use on skin, or use the gel
as a rinse, dabbing gel onto troubling sore spots. Commercial aloe juice is
produced for internal use.
Cautions – Do not use internally while pregnant or while
breastfeeding. Do not take internally if suffering from hemorrhoids or kidney
disease.
Taken from Andrew Chevallier’s, Encyclopedia of Herbal
Medicine, and Herbal Remedies.
