Information on Aloe Vera
| Latin Name |
| Aloe barbadensis |
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| Affects |
| Integumentary system |
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| Herb Forms |
| Juice, gel, ointment, powder. |
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| Dosages |
Fresh Leaves: External use
Fresh Juice: Internal |
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| Cautions |
| Powdered leaf acts as cathartic. Contraindicated during pregnancy and not for long-term use. |
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| Botanical Information |
| A spiny succulent perennial. The long leaves are thick and full of juice and smooth except for spiny teeth on the margins. |
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| Description |
The juice of aloe vera is taken internally for constipation and to soothe ulcers, arthritis, and colitis. A fresh leaf or the juice of aloe vera is applied for burns, sunburn, poison oak (can be safely used around the eyes), and wounds. As a skin emollient, aloe vera is often an ingredient in cosmetics.
Caution: The resinous layer just beneath the skin contains anthraquinones, which have a strong laxative effect on the bowels.
Aloe Vera has a taste of BITTER and a temperature of COOL. |
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| References |
| Newall, C. et al.. 1996. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical Press.
Leung, A. and S. Foster. 1996. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients. New York: J. Wiley & Sons.
McGuffin, M. et al. 1997. Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton: CRC Press.
Wren, R.C. 1988. Potter's New Cyclopaedia of Botanical Drugs. Essex: C.W. Daniel Co. Ltd.
Wehrbach, M. 1987. Nutritional Influences on Illness. Tarzana, CA: Third Line Press.
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Ailments treated by Aloe Vera
| Ailment |
Treatment Support |
Application |
| Burns, 2nd degree |
anti-inflammatory |
gel, externally |
| Sunburn |
cooling emollient |
fresh leaf, gel |
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