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HERBAL OVERVIEW
ALOE VERA
Aloe Barbadensis/Capensis/Vera (Family Liliaceae)
INTRODUCTION
Aloe originated in eastern and southern Africa. From there it migrated to America. Today it is primarily grown in subtropical areas of the United States and in the West Indies. The spiky aloe vera plant can be found today in households worldwide, where it provides ever-ready, soothing first aid for burns, scrapes, cuts and skin infections. Historically - from the soldiers who applied aloe to battle wounds to the Empress Josephine, who used it on her royal complexion, to today's cosmetic shelves full of aloe-enriched products - the plant has proved its healing worth. The gel, which oozes from the leaves when they are split open, is what gives value to the plant. It is considered one of the plant world's most effective moisturizers. Aloe's ability to accelerate wound healing is also established - just how the plant achieves this feat, however, is not clear. One theory is that it spurs blood flow to the wound area and helps cells regenerate. Whatever the reason, an aloe plant is a useful first aid kit addition.
PLANT DESCRIPTION
There are over 240 different species of Aloe, growing mainly in the dry regions of Africa, Asia, Europe and America. There are over 500 species of aloe growing in climates worldwide. Of the over 240 species of Aloe, four are recognized as having nutritional value with Aloe barbadensis miller leading the group. Aloe barbadensis miller is the type of Aloe used in most products with aloe content available commercially today.
Although Aloe vera is a member of the Lily family, it is very cactus-like in its characteristics. This unique plant also belongs to a larger plant family called "Xeroids". The aloe leaf contains over 75 nutrients and 200 active compounds, including 20 minerals, 18 amino acids, and 12 vitamins and is about 96 percent water. The rest of it contains active ingredients including essential oil, amino acids, minerals, vitamins, enzymes and glycoproteins. Aloe vera "extract" is made by pulverizing the whole leaves of the plant. Aloe vera juice is made from the inner leaf.
The most important components of aloe are its anthracene compounds, such as aloin and aloe emodin, which affects the large intestine. The plant contains resins and bitters. Its gel contains polysaccarides, enzymes, amino acids and antibiotic substances.
GARDENING TIPS
The distinctive aloe vera plant is a succulent with extensively branched roots for soaking up all possible moisture. Its fleshy, fattish leaves taper to a point and are trimmed with small thorns. Tubular blossoms are red, yellow or bright orange. Flowers are rarely seen in aloes that are grown as house plants.
Aloe vera loves warmth and sun, but will grow in partial shades. It needs loose, rather dry soil with high humus content. It grows up to 3 feet in the ground and 16 inches in containers. Almost a maintenance-free plant, aloe should be watered once every two weeks during its growth period in spring and summer, in the winter, water only once a month. Aloe is highly tolerant of dry conditions and can survive up to four months without water.
You can harvest aloe vera gel from the outermost leaves at any time of the year on plants at least 2 years old. Only two- to three year old plants are thought therapeutically effective. use the lowest leaves since these contain the greatest quantity of gel. Cut the leaves lengthwise and scrape out the gel with a blunt-edged knife. The fresh gel should be used immediately.
PROPAGATION
Starting aloe from seeds is impractical because seeds are generally unavailable. It is best to buy aloe as a young plant - you might find it as Aloe barbadensis, a variety of aloe vera. You can propagate new plants from 2- to 3-year-old plants, which develop suckers - basically, baby plants. As soon as these grow 3 to 4 inches tall, they have developed roots and can be separated from the parent plant by gently digging up the entire adult plant and remove the baby plants, leaving small roots as intact as possible. Give each baby plant its own container filled with well-drained, soil-less potting mix (peat moss, vermiculite and compost). Place in a spot with at least a half day of sunlight; water sparingly. The offspring plant will develop its own suckers, or baby plants, after 2 years or more. Most aloe plants in North America are grown in containers, since only gardens in the southernmost zone 10 (California, Florida), with their higher temperatures, can sustain year-round outdoor growing of aloe. Aloe plants are very tender and will liquefy if left in temperatures below 40°F. In all other zones, move your potted aloe outside only during the warm summer months and keep it indoors for the rest of the year.
PESTS
If you find little white tufts of waxy wool on your aloe, mealy bugs have most likely infested your plant. Rid your plant of these pests by swabbing the spots with alcohol or knocking them off with a stream of water.
ALOE VERA HISTORY
Aloe, native to Africa, is also known as "lily of the desert", the "plant of immortality", and the "medicine plant". The name was derived from the Arabic alloeh meaning "bitter" because of the bitter liquid found in the leaves. Aloe has a long history as a cosmetic lotion. It is said that Cleopatra used aloe every day to preserve her famous beauty and keep her skin supple, glowing and youthfully appealing. In 1500 B.C. Egyptians recorded use of the herbal plant in treating burns, infections and parasites. Ancient Greeks, Arabs and Spaniards have used the plant throughout the millennia. African hunters still rub the gel on their bodies to reduce perspiration and their scent.
Modern healers have used aloe vera since the 1930's. Research has isolated compounds that may help account for other healing abilities, including antifungal and anti-inflammatory components, but the evidence for targeted use of these is not yet conclusive. In the 1990s, a body of scientific literature has arisen providing a rational scientific basis for aloe's use in treating minor wounds and burns. Since the safety of such procedures has never been questioned, it is a therapy that has much to recommend it. Many liquid health treatments are made, some combining aloe juice with other plants and herbs. The juice is soothing to digestive tract irritations, such as colitis and peptic ulcers.
Extensive research since the 1930's has shown that the clear gel has a dramatic ability to heal wounds, ulcers and burns by putting a protective coating on the affected areas and speeding up the healing rate. Aloe vera is commonly known as a skin healer, moisturizer, and softener. It is dramatically effective on burns of all types, and is also good for cuts, insect stings, bruises, acne and blemishes, poison ivy, welts, skin ulcers, and eczema.
ALOE VERA USES
Aloe is a good plant to keep in the kitchen. Fresh gel from the aloe plant produces the best results for first aid being directly applied to the damaged skin. When the leaf is broken, its gel is placed on minor burns and sunburns to relieve pain and prevent blisters. Aloe may be used for cuts and scrapes to reduce inflammation, decrease swelling and redness, and accelerate wound healing.
As a natural moisturizer, aloe softens the skin and helps to restore damaged tissue. Aloe can aid in keeping the skin supple, and has been used in the control of acne and eczema. It can relieve itching due to insect bites, poison ivy rashes, and allergies. Aloe's healing power come from increasing the availability of oxygen to the skin, and by increasing the synthesis and strength of tissue. To get even more benefit from fresh gel for slowly healing sores, apply a cut whole leaf to the area and cover with gauze. Aloe has been found useful for radiation-therapy burns and for frostbite.
As a food supplement, aloe is said to facilitate digestion, aid in blood and lymphatic circulation, as well as kidney, liver and gall bladder functions. Taken internally, 98-99 percent pure aloe vera is known to aid in the healing of stomach disorders, ulcers, constipation, hemorrhoids, rectal itching, colitis, and all colon problems. Aloe contains at least three anti-inflammatory fatty acids that are helpful for the stomach, small intestine and colon. It naturally alkalizes digestive juices to prevent over-acidity - a common cause of indigestion.
Aloe can also be helpful against infections, varicose veins, skin cancer, and arthritis, and is used in the treatment of AIDS. A newly discovered compound in aloe, acemannan, is currently being studied for its ability to strengthen the bodies natural resistance. Studies have shown acemannan to boost T-lymphocyte cells and aid the immune system.
It helps cleanse the digestive tract by exerting a soothing, balancing effect. A potent laxative juice, different from the gel, comes from the base of the leaves and is dried. There have been excellent results in using colon cleansers containing psyllium husks in combination with aloe vera juice. This combination has been found to be good for food allergy and colon disorder sufferers. Psyllium keeps the folds and pockets in the colon free of toxic material that gathers there. The aloe vera not only has a healing effect, but if constipation or diarrhea is present, it will return the stools to normal. It takes a few weeks to cleanse the colon, but regular, periodic use will keep the colon clean. As with any substance, it is possible to develop an intolerance to aloe vera and/or psyllium husks, so this treatment should not be used on an ongoing basis. Aloe vera juice is available commercially for use internally.
METHODS OF ADMINISTRATION
ALOE VERA DOSAGE INFORMATION
Apply Aloe gel liberally to sunburn and other minor burns. In using Aloe ointment, follow label instructions. For internal use in the treatment of AIDS and other conditions, some authorities recommend a dose of Aloe standardized to provide 800 to 1600 mg of acemannan daily. Acemannan is a glyconutrient agent (sugar) of Aloe Vera, studies confirm that it has significant value for bacterial, viral and fungal infections. Acemannan is a compound used to stimulate the immune system to be more effective in killing certain viruses, Aids being on of them. If using dry Aloe latex up to 1 tablespoon for 2 to 3 times per week to maintain regular bowel habits. Please as always follow the instructions/directions on the package or follow the instructions given by your Health Care Professional.
ALOE VERA SAFETY & INTERACTION INFORMATION
There is no need to worry about over doing it, used on the skin Aloe is very safe. Be aware though, authoritative herbal reference warns against internal use of Aloe by children as it could have laxative effects (not a warning for adults). If you have more than a superficial wound, you should see your health care provider about using a different salve, antibiotic, instead of Aloe. Also, there are many different types of Aloe plants, please be sure if you are using the raw plant, that you are using the Aloe Vera plant.
Drug Reactions - Hydrocortisone - Aloe Gel may increase the ability of hydrocortisone to reduce swelling. Please make sure you see your health care provider before using Aloe with this medicine.
Take Care!
Because using aloe as a laxative can cause painful cramping, it is seldom chosen for this purpose specifically. If you do try it, do not exceed the recommended dosage and stop as soon as cramps set in. If you are ill or pregnant, avoid the juice altogether.
NUTRITION-HERBAL LINKS
MoonDragon's Health Information: Nutrition Basics: Herbal Index
ALOE VERA SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS
After Sun Aloe Soother, Kiss My Face, With Jewelweed & Yucca, Fragrance Free, 4 fl. oz.
With over a thousand years of use in Native American remedies, Aloe Vera, Yucca-Glauca Root and Jewelweed are ingredients with extraordinary moisturization and anti-inflammatory properties.
Aloe & Olive Moisturizer, Kiss My Face, 16 oz.
Aloe & Olive Moisturizer is highly recommended for sensitive skin, this moisturizer softens with Olive Oil, Aloe Vera, natural herbs & flowers.
AloeDyne Organic Toothpaste, Triple Action, Kiss My Face, 3.4 oz.
Kiss My Face Certified Aloe Vera Organic Toothpaste offers cool mint freshness. While using ingredients formulated to keep teeth white and gums healthy. Triple Action - Total Confidence!
AloeDyne Organic Whitening Toothpaste, Kiss My Face, 3.4 oz.
Kiss My Face Whitening Toothpaste uses soothing Certified Organic Aloe Vera combined with a powerful blend of carefully selected natural whiteners to create a truly exceptional toothpaste that still leaves your mouth feeling tingly fresh.
AloeLax Maximum Strength Aloe Laxative, Nature's Way, 350 mg, 100 Caps
Use Nature's Way Aloelax Maximum Strength, Aloe Laxative, for relief from occasional constipation (irregularity). This product generally produces bowel movement in 6 to 12 hours. Aloelax is an all natural remedy for constipation.
AloeMaxLax Aloe Laxative, All Natural Remedy For Constipation, Nature's Way, 445 mg, 100 VCaps
AloeMaxLax, aloe laxative natural remedy for constipation, from Nature's Way is specially formulated for those with tough constipation.
Aloe Vanilla Mineral Sunscreen, SPF 18, Alba Botanica, 4 fl. oz.
Aloe Vanilla Mineral Alba Botanica Sunscreen is lightly scented and offers an SPF 18. This lightweight sunscreen with a fresh vanilla scent for all-over use helps prevent sunburn with an effective, mineral-based, UVA & UVB broad-spectrum reflective barrier.
Aloe Vera, By Deanne Tenney, Paperback
One of nature's supreme soothing agents, aloe vera has been used for hundreds of years for everything from sunburn to constipation.
Aloe Vera Capsules, NOW Foods, 5000 mg, 100 Softgels
NOW Aloe Vera capsules (softgels) are used to soothe inflammation, help heal wounds, and support healthy blood sugar levels.
Aloe Vera Concentrate, NOW Foods, 100% Organic, 4 oz.
This liquid aloe vera concentrate is made from organic aloe leaves that are processed in a certified organic processing plant.
Aloe Vera Gel & Juice, Certified Organic, 99.7% Pure, Nature's Way, 1 Liter
Nature's Way Aloe Vera Gel and Juice provides the unique soothing benefits of the interior potent aloe gel fillet. Aloe Vera Gel & Juice blend contains high amounts of aloe nutrients including polysaccharides.
Aloe Vera Gel & Juice, Wild Berry Flavor, Premium Quality, Nature's Way, 1 Liter
Nature's Way combines delicious natural berry flavor with the goodness of pure Aloe Vera Gel and juice. The result is a potent 65 percent Aloe Vera drink the entire family can enjoy.
Aloe Vera Gel, NOW Foods, 32 oz.
NOW Foods Aloe Vera Gel is made from organic aloe vera juice.
Aloe Vera Gel, NOW Foods, 1 Gallon
NOW Foods Aloe Vera gel contains organically grown aloe vera juice.
Aloe Vera Juice, Certified Organic, NOW Foods, 32 fl. oz.
Aloe Vera, sometimes referred to as the "medicine plant", is soothing and cooling. Many researchers believe that aloe can enhance the body's ability to heal by stimulating the activity of collagen and elastin, the two compounds responsible for healthy tissue integrity.
Aloe Vera Juice, Herbal Aloe Force, Organically Grown, Unprocessed, Whole Raw Aloe Vera, 33.8 fl. oz.
Herbal Aloe Force, Aloe Vera Juice, Re-Natures the cells, tissues, glands, organs and all systems of the body to function as originally designed.
Aloe Vera Juice, Pure Aloe Force, Organically Grown, Unprocessed, Whole Raw Aloe Vera, 33.8 fl. oz.
The magnificent Aloe plant, that is designed to be self-sufficient & thrive in the desert, feeds us in unique ways with its 250+ naturally occurring constituents including: enzymes, amino acids, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, glycoproteins, sterols, growth factors, & all sizes of uniquely complex Aloe polysaccharides and mannans.
Aloe Vera Latex & Leaf, All Natural Laxative, Nature's Way, 550 mg, 100 VCaps
Aloe Vera Latex & Leaf from Nature's Way is an all natural laxative that offers healing benefits to the digestive system.
Aloe Vera Skin Gel, Herbal Aloe Force, Organically Grown Unprocessed Whole Raw Aloe Vera, 4 fl. oz.
With this product, you can keep your skin looking clean, clear, smooth, toned, hydrated and glowing with health. You can also reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and sun damage.
Alphacura SkinAID, Natural Acne Treatment, 1 oz.
Used for clearing and controlling acne and other skin blemishes and bringing welcome relief from fever blisters, itchy rashes and poison oak.
Anti-Stress Shower Gel, With Aloe Vera, Kiss My Face, Trial Size, 12 Ct., 1 oz.
Let Kiss My Face Aromatherapeutic Anti-Stress Bath and Shower Gel calm your body and mind.
Anti-Stress Shower Gel & Foaming Bath, With Aloe Vera, Kiss My Face, 16 fl. oz.
Let Kiss My Face Aromatherapeutic Anti-Stress Bath and Shower Gel calm your body and mind.
Burt's Bees Baby Bee Skin Creme, 2 oz.
Burt's Bees Baby Bee Skin Creme is made with Aloe vera, vitamin E and beeswax and is guaranteed soothing relief to the baby's skin.
Cocoa Butter Lotion With Aloe Vera, NOW Foods, 8 oz.
This all natural compound provides deep hydration to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and lines when used daily. As a daily moisturizer, cocoa butter soothes and softens skin and is commonly used to alleviate the irritation of sunburns and dry, flaky skin. Cocoa butter is derived entirely from cocoa beans.
Natural Deodorant, Active Scent, Twist Stick, Organic, Lafe's, 2.5 oz.
Natural Deodorant Twist Stick from Lafe's is organic and has aerobic oxygen and is paraben and PG Free.
Thayers Astringent, Medicated Superhazel Mentholated With Aloe Vera, 11.5 fl. oz.
Medicated Superhazel Thayers Astringent with Aloe Vera is a mentholated witch hazel providing instant cooling and relief for minor cuts, itches, rashes and burns.
Thayers Witch Hazel Original With Aloe Vera Astringent, 11.5 oz.
Original Thayers Witch Hazel Astringent with Aloe Vera is a gentle formulation enriched with aloe vera to help gently cool and soften the skin, improve complexion, refresh skin after bath or shaving, or cleanse the skin.
Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Juice, 99.7% Pure, Certified Organic, Nature's Way, 1 Liter
Nature's Way Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Juice offers you the rich benefits of the most potent part of the aloe plant. Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Juice contains an abundance of advantageous components not found in most aloe gel filler products.
Witch Hazel After Shave With Aloe Vera, Thayers, 4 fl. oz.
Thayers Witch Hazel After Shave with Aloe Vera soothes and softens at the same time.
Witch Hazel Astringent Pads, Original With Aloe Vera, Thayers, 60 Pads
Original Thayers Witch Hazel Astringent Pads with Aloe Vera are a gentle formulation enriched to help gently cool and soften the skin.
FOR MORE PRODUCTS & INFORMATION CLICK ON THESE LINKS:
Mountain Rose Herbs: Aloe Vera Gel & Juice
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Information
OTHER PRODUCT RESOURCESGeorge's Aloe Products: George's Aloe Vera Juice is a good source of aloe vera juice and other aloe products, as it needs no refrigeration and tastes like plain water.
A History of Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera Products
Aloe Vera Products: Natural Beauty
Key West Aloe
Aloe Vera: Encapsulated Herbal Extract
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HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
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