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Aloe Vera

aloe vera

Other Common Names:  

Names in Other Languages:

Aloès Vrai, Laloi (French); Echte Aloe (German); Sábila, Zábila (Spanish); Curacao Aloe

Similar Species:

There are over 100 different species in the Aloe (liliaceae) family. The most common known species, aloe vera, is a perennial herb that grows from 80 to 100 cm tall. Other similar species include: aloe barbadensis, aloe ferox, aloe arborescens.

Take care in the identification of Aloe plants as some species (such as aloe globuligemma) are toxic and can result in death if misidentified.

Botanical Description:

Family: liliaceae

The leaves are thick and fleshing, varying in shades of green, and having prickly, serrated edges. On the inside, these leaves are lined with a yellow latex sap and filled with a clear sticky gel.

The flowers of the Aloe Vera plant grow on a single stalk that grows out of the middle of mature plants. This stalk can grow up to 90 cm tall. The color of the flowers range from yellow to red.

Cultivation:

Aloe Vera is found worldwide, but is said to be native to Africa.

It is easy to grow, not being too particular to soil types, though it thrives best in well-drained, sandy soils, that are rich in minerals, and multiplies through “baby” off-shoots which can be easily transplanted.

Aloe Vera thrives well in full sun and warm weather. It does not weather well in cold winters, and should be brought indoors if there is any risk of frost.

Traditional Uses:

Aloe Vera is most commonly known and used for the treatment of minor burns (such as sunburns). But there are many numerous healing claims attributed to Aloe Vera for a wide assortment of other ailments as well.

In traditional medicine, Aloe Vera has been used externally to speed the healing of wounds, minor burns, insect bites, conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eye), gum disease, toothache, psoriasis, eczema, genital herpes, and other skin irritations. It is even said to remove wrinkles, clear acne, and promote healthy skin cells.

Internally Aloe Vera is used to strengthen and balance the immune system.  When the immune system is weak , or under active, Aloe Vera is used to strengthen the immune system. When the immune system is over active (such as in the case of allergic reactions, rheumatism, or cancer), Aloe Vera is used to bring it back into balance.

Aloe Vera has also been used internally to help with conditions such as asthma, allergic reactions, menstrual cramps or irregular cycles, constipation, gastritis, guinea worms, heartburn, diabetes, ulcers, typhoid, high cholesterol, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, autism, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, kidney stones, and other kidney disorders – though it should not be considered a stand-alone treatment for any of these conditions.

Aloe Vera leaves are rich in a number of key nutrients needed in the body. It contains key vitamins, such as Vitamin A, B1, B2, B3 (niacin), and B6. Aloe Vera was once thought to be one of the few plants containing Vitamin B12, but more recent studies show that it only contains trace amounts of this vitamin at best. However, studies show that taking Aloe Vera at the same time as taking Vitamin B12 can help increase the absorption and distribution of Vitamin B12 in the body. And this is not only true for Vitamin B12, but also for Vitamin E as well.

Aloe Vera leaves also contain at least 20 different minerals, a number of different enzymes, and at least 18 amino acids (including all 8 of the most essential ones). Many of these nutrients are found in the outer green part of the leaves, however, and studies have not yet shown whether it is safe to consume the entire leaf, as the yellow latex that lines the inside of the leaves are very potent and can can cause a number of undesirable side effects.

Most traditional treatments suggest only using the inner gel of the plant and discarding the outer sections. Thus, they cannot claim all the benefits of these minerals and nutrients, as many of them exist only in this outer layer.

For more specific information on how to use Aloe Vera refer to the "Specific Recommendations” section below.

Dosage:

For External Use:

Cut open a mature Aloe leaf and rub the clear gel all over the affected area. Alternatively, apply Aloe Vera in the form of a lotion or salve. Repeat multiple times a day, as needed.

For Internal Use:  

The traditionally suggested dose for internal use is to take 1-2 tablespoons of the fresh Aloe gel 1-3 times daily. As a tincture, take 10-40 drops 3 times daily. Because of its nauseating effect, it is good to take it along with ginger – 4 parts Aloe Vera gel to 1 part ginger root.

It is not good to take this treatment long-term, as it is necessary for your body to have occasional breaks from constant consumption. The best pattern for taking Aloe Vera internally is to take it for 10 days and then rest for 10 days before resuming.

Do not take Aloe Vera internally for more than 2 weeks straight. Taking too much Aloe Vera can result in diarrhea, loss of electrolytes, skin rashes, hives, and other unpleasant side effects. Always drink lots of water when taking Aloe Vera internally.

Avoid taking internally if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, during menstruation, if you have hemorrhoids, or in the case of degeneration of the liver or gallbladder. Persons with diabetes should only take under the supervision of a health care practitioner.

Please note that not all Aloe Vera is good for consumption. Aloe Vera gel has two parts: a clear, gel-substance found in the middle of the plant leaf (called Aloe gel), and a yellow substance found right under the skin of the leaf (called Aloe latex). The yellow Aloe latex is generally not good for consumption. When harvesting the gel yourself, pay careful attention to avoid the Aloe latex. If you are purchasing Aloe as a commercial product, make sure to purchase ones that are clearly marked as being edible and safe for consumption.

The yellow latex extracted from the inner leaf is a very powerful laxative and should only be used with great caution, preferably under the direction of a trained health care practitioner. This latex should never be taken by pregnant women!

Possible Side Effects:

When used externally, Aloe Vera is very safe. Very rarely it can cause mild, allergic reactions for some people.

When taken internally,  possible side effects may include:

* Cramping, diarrhea or loose stools

* Nausea or vomiting

* Skin rash or irritation

* Hives (due to an over accumulation and production of white blood cells in the body)

* Loss of electrolytes (especially potassium when taken with heart condition medicines)

If you experience any severe side effects or allergic reactions (itching, rash, hives, difficulty breathing, tightness in chest, or any form of swelling), seek medical attention right away!

Warnings!

* Do NOT put Aloe Vera gel on FRESH burns! If the skin is still warm from any form of burn DO NOT apply Aloe Vera gel. Applying Aloe Vera gel to fresh burns will trap the heat inside the skin which can cause the heat to do additional damage to the skin. Wait until the skin cools. You can help the skin to cool by running it under cool water or apply a baking soda and water paste to help draw the heat out of the skin. Only apply Aloe Vera gel after the skin has cooled.

* If you have an allergy to onion, garlic, or tulips, an allergic reaction to Aloe Vera is very likely.

* If you are taking Aloe Vera internally, do NOT take for longer than 2 weeks without a rest.

* Avoid taking internally if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, during menstruation, if you have hemorrhoids, or in the case of degeneration of the liver or gallbladder.

* Persons with diabetes should only take Aloe Vera under the supervision of a health care practitioner as Aloe Vera may lower blood sugar levels.

* Aloe Vera juice should NOT be drunk in place of water. Be sure to drink lots of water when taking Aloe Vera internally.

Drug Interactions:

Check with your doctor or health care practitioner before taking with any prescription drugs.

Tips for Buying Commercial Aloe Vera Products:

* Always check to see that Aloe Vera is listed as one of the first ingredients, and that the product contains a high percentage of pure Aloe Vera. Creams and ointments should contain at least 20% Aloe Vera. For internal use, Aloe Vera juice should contain at least 95% Aloe Vera, and no aloin or Aloe-emodin.

* If you are purchasing Aloe Vera for internal purposes, make sure the product is clearly marked to be edible and safe for consumption.

* The International Aloe Science Council is a voluntary certification program that audits companies that produce Aloe Vera products. Look for the “IASC-certified” seal on commercial products to know that the raw ingredients have been processed according to the standards and guidelines set in place by IASC. Purchasing products that have this seal (especially juices and Aloe products that will be used internally) can guarantee that the product you are buying is a good quality product and safe to use.   

* Fresh Aloe Vera gel is the most potent form of this herb, while other forms can be more convenient and also beneficial, it is by far best to have an actual Aloe Vera plant that you harvest gel from directly.

How to Preserve Aloe Vera Gel

For every 1/4 cup of Aloe Vera gel, add 500 mg vitamin C powder and 400 IU vitamin E. Mash or blend well and store in an air tight container in a cool, dry place, away from any direct sunlight. If refrigerated it can keep for about 5-6 months. Without refrigeration it will still keep for some time, but it will have a shorter shelf life than if it were refrigerated.

Specific Recommendations for Using Aloe Vera

The following information is categorized according to the most common or popular uses of Aloe Vera and ending with the least common or less researched claims.

Minor Burns, Sun Burns, Insect Bites, and Other Skin Irritations

Aloe Vera helps to disinfect and promote the healing of burns and wounds, as well as providing relief for pain, itching, or other forms of skin irritations.

Cut open a mature Aloe leaf and rub the clear gel all over the affected area. Repeat multiple times a day, as needed.

Warning: Do NOT put Aloe Vera gel on FRESH burns! If the skin is still warm from any form of burn DO NOT apply Aloe Vera gel. Applying Aloe Vera gel to fresh burns will trap the heat inside the skin which can cause the heat to do additional damage to the skin. Wait until the skin cools. You can help the skin to cool by running it under cool water or apply a baking soda and water paste to help draw the heat out of the skin. Only apply Aloe Vera gel after the skin has cooled.

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Balancing the Immune System

Aloe Vera gel is used internally as an immuno-modulator – meaning that it balances and regulates the body’s immune system. Aloe Vera helps to strengthen the immune system when it is weak, or to calm the immune system and bring it back into balance when it s over-active (such as in the case of an allergic reaction).

Because of the immune boosting properties of Aloe Vera, it can be a very beneficial supplement for persons with HIV/AIDS, but should in now way be viewed as a “stand alone” cure or treatment for the disease.

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Acne, Eczema, Psoriasis, Shingles, and Other Skin Problems

Aloe Vera helps the skin pores to open and receive the moisture and nutrients found in the nutrient-rich gel. Traditionally, Aloe Vera is taken internally in larger doses, while externally the gel is applied liberally and frequently to the affected skin.

It may take several months before seeing visible results.

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Gastritis, Heartburn, and Other Digestive Disorders

Aloe Vera’s anti-bacterial properties can help to decrease the amount of bad bacteria in the gut, as well as helping to prevent the growth of candida or other fungal infections. Aloe Vera also contains essential enzymes needed for digestion. Because of these factors, Aloe Vera can aid in the health of the intestines by supporting a good balanced flora, and thus, indirectly, offer relief from related digestive disorders.  

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Constipation

Select one of the large leaves that grow in the outer layer of a mature plant, but do not harvest it yet. Sterilize this leaf while it is still on the plant, by pouring boiling water over it.  Dry the leaf and cut it off close to the base of the plant. Place the leaf in a cup, with the cut side facing down. Let sit for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, take the leaf out of the cup and measure the amount of sap that has seeped out into the cup. Mix this with 3 times the amount of sugar. Dry this sugar mixture in the sun (covered with a screen or net to keep bugs off). Adults take 3 grams of this dried mixture in the evening as a laxative.

Do NOT use for prolonged periods of time. Do Not use if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Note: In 2002, the FDA banned the use of Aloe Vera as a laxative ingredient in over-the-counter drugs. The Aloe latex, which is the key ingredient for this laxative, is not the safest product to use. Considering there are many other available and safer options for laxatives, it may be best to consider other options for treating constipation besides the use of Aloe Vera.

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High Blood Pressure

Aloe Vera is a natural blood purifier, with properties that increase the hemoglobin in the blood as well as dilating blood vessels which can help with blood circulation. It is believed that Aloe Vera helps with the formation and oxygenation of red blood cells, aids in the blood formation, maturing, and over-all health of the blood cells. These combines effects are what helps in reducing high blood pressure in the body.

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Diabetes

Studies show that regular consumption of Aloe Vera can lead to lowering blood sugar levels in the body. Aloe Vera also aids in the toning and support of the Pancreas, which indirectly helps to regulate the flow of insulin.

Insulin breaks up the sugar molecules in the blood and pushes it into the cells. The cells do not open to receive the sugar without the help of the insulin. Sometimes insulin is not potent enough to open the cells, it needs a sufficient supply of chromium in order to function properly, and Aloe Vera contains chromium. In this way, Aloe Vera can be helpful to persons with diabetes, but should not be seen as a “stand alone” cure for diabetes.

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Rheumatoid Arthritis and Joint Pain

Traditionally, Aloe Vera is taken internally to help reduce inflammation that can cause joint pain. Externally, the gel is massaged into the affected joints.

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Kidney Stones and Other Kidney Disorders

Aloe Vera helps to expel excess water in the cells, which can help reduce the amount of work the kidneys have to do. In this way, Aloe Vera indirectly helps with any related kidney problems (including kidney stones or kidney failure), but is not a cure or treatment for these health problems.

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Cancer

Aloe Vera has been said to be beneficial in fighting certain kinds of cancer (particularly leukemia). It encourages the growth of non-cancerous cells and cancer fighting properties. It has powerful components that regulate the immune system and help to retard the growth of turner, or cancerous cells and even fight against such cells. For these reasons, Aloe Vera may be a very beneficial supplement for cancer patients, but it should in no way be seen as a “stand alone” cure or treatment for cancer.  

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Menstrual Cramps or Irregular Periods

Aloe Vera is said to be very helpful with many different problems related to a woman’s menstrual cycle or reproductive organs. Aloe Vera gel is taken internally to help with irregular periods and cramps or pain during menstruation.  

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Conjunctivitis (Eye Inflammation)

Cut open a mature Aloe leaf and place the sticky, gel side of the leaf over the inflamed eyelid for 5 minutes, 4 times a day.

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Guinea Worms

The yellow Aloe latex is used for the treatment of guinea worms, but specific instructions or direction for use has not yet been determined.

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Toothache

Aloe Vera gel may help to relieve toothache and reduce swelling. It may also help to protect the enamel on teeth which can aid in the prevention of tooth decay.

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Autism, Epilepsy and Parkinson’s Disease

Aloe Vera is said to be very beneficial to the brain and nervous system. It contains properties that increase mental alertness, help with memory retention, and encourage neuron activity in the central nervous system.

Favorite Aloe Vera Recipes:

Basic Aloe Vera Lotion

This lotion can be used on your hands, face, or body to moisturize and nourish your skin. Can also be used for skin irritations, including sunburn, insect bites, or any purpose in which you would use Aloe Vera externally.

Ingredients:

* 1 cup Aloe Vera gel

* 1 teaspoon Vitamin E oil

* 10 drops essential oil of choice (optional)

* 3/4 cup beeswax (add more or less to adjust how thick or thin you want your lotion to be)

* 1/2 cup light oil (ex. almond, olive, jojoba, grapeseed, sunflower seed, or any other vegetable oil of your choice)

Directions:

1) Mix Aloe Vera gel and vitamin E oil together. Use a blender or mortar to grind the substance into a smooth mixture. If you want your lotion to have a pleasant smell, add essential oil of choice.

2) Melt beeswax and light oil in a double boiler or in a saucepan over low heat.

3) Allow oils to cool to room temperature. It is very important for the oils to be about the same temperature as the Aloe Vera to prevent separation when they get mixed together.

4) Add the Aloe Vera mixture to the oils. Mix well until you have a smooth, uniform lotion. Using a mortar or blender will give the best results.

5) Pour the mixture into a clean (preferably sterilized) jar.  

Note: Lotion will keep best if refrigerated.

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Aloe Vera Sunscreen

Ingredients:

* 1-2 teaspoons beeswax (more if you like a thick sunscreen, less if you like it smooth)

* 1/2 cup light oil (ex. almond, olive, jojoba, grapeseed, sunflower seed, or any other vegetable oil of your choice)

* 2 tablespoons zinc oxide (This is the ingredient that blocks the sun UV rays. This amount gives a natural SPF of about 20. More can be added for a higher SPF)

* 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil (optional)

* 10 drops grapefruit seed extract (optional)

You can also add other essential oils if you would like a more pleasant smelling sunscreen, but do NOT use citrus oils. Citrus oils can cause burning and discoloring of the skin when they come in contact with sun.

* 1/2 cup distilled water

* 3 tablespoons Aloe Vera gel

Directions:

1) Melt beeswax and light oil in a double boiler or in a saucepan over low heat.

2) Remove from heat and add zinc oxide, vitamin E oil, grapefruit seed extract, and other essential oils (if desired). Mix well. Set aside.

3) Heat distilled water and Aloe Vera gel until just warm (do not boil or overheat)

4) Whisk your oil, beeswax, and zinc oxide mixture while very slowly adding the warm Aloe Vera mixture. Constant stirring is necessary to keep ingredients from separating.

Tip: If you have problems with the oil and water mixtures separating, lecithin can be added to the the warm mixtures to help them bind together.  

5) Pour the mixture into a clean (preferably sterilized) container and let it harden. Store in cool, dry place or in the refrigerator. Use as a normal sunscreen.

Notes:

Due to the zinc oxide, this sunscreen can leave white stains on dark colored clothes, so be careful when putting it on.  

The beeswax in this product helps to make it somewhat waterproof, but not 100%. Sunscreen should be reapplied after swimming or after a lot of sweating.

Zinc oxide is the ingredient that protects your body against the sun’s UV rays by forming a layer on your skin that reflects the UVB and UVA rays. It is true that zinc oxide is a chemical, but you do not need to worry about using it in your sunscreen. Zinc oxide is a powder that sits on top of your skin (unlike other chemicals used in commercial sunscreens). The zinc oxide does not absorb into your skin at all, so you do not have to worry about the chemicals entering your body.

If you do not have time to make this sunscreen, an easier option is to take a normal lotion (make sure there is no citrus in it) and add the zinc oxide to make it a sunscreen lotion.

This alternative is easy and fast, but keep in mind that without the beeswax it will not be waterproof at all.

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Palatable Aloe Vera Blend

Aloe Vera is not a very pleasant taste to palate. If you are wanting to take Aloe Vera internally but are disgusted at the thought

of its taste, try the following recipes, using whichever combination of ingredients you prefer.

Ingredients:

* 1/4 cup Aloe Vera gel

* 1 item to help disguise the texture of the gel (such as 1 banana, 1 cup mango, 1 cup yogurt, or a combination of them)

* 1 citrus fruit to help disguise the flavor of the gel (such as 1 cup pineapple, lemon juice, or any of the citrus fruits mentioned below)

* 1 dark colored fruit to give an appetizing color and added flavor (such as blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries)

* 1 item that gives an extra “zing” or complimentary taste (such as 1 green apple, 2 tablespoons coconut milk, or a handful of cranberries)

* 1 natural sweetener (such as 1 tablespoon honey, or a few drops of liquid stevia)

Directions:

Combine desired ingredients and mix together in a blender until smooth. If your blend is too thick, add a little coconut milk or fruit juice for the desired consistency. Chill and drink.

Other Tips for Palatable Aloe Drinks:

* Use citrus to help cut the strong taste of aloe. Lemon, lime, grapefruit, pineapple, or orange. Any of these citrus fruits will help tone down the strong aloe flavor.

* Adjust the color. What your drink looks like has a lot to do with how your palate receives it. Since aloe gel is a clear substance, what you add to it will determine what color your beverage becomes.

* Chill. Cold or even frozen beverages often taste much better than room temperature drinks.

Recommended Resources:

For more information about Aloe Vera and it’s many uses, I would recommend the following resources:

References:

* Natural Medicine in the Tropics by Dr. Hans Martin Hirt and Bindanda M’Pia

* Medicinal Plants of the World by Ben-Erik van Wyk and Michael Wink

* The Healing Power of Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbs by Reader’s Digest

* Herbal Remedies by Dr. Thomas Hunter

* Aloe Vera: Could it Heal the Gut & Boost Brain Power in Autism? by Josie Dovidio, DDS

* Natural Remedies Encyclopedia by Vance Ferrell and Harold Cherne, MD

* Handbook of African Medicinal Plants

* http://www.harmonyindia.org

* http://www.anniesremedy.com