What to know about Aloe vera (aloe) before using it medicinally

Aloe vera, commonly known as aloe, is a medicinal herb that has been used for centuries to improve health due to its numerous benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.

The herb thrives in hot and dry climates, making it a popular choice for gardening in desert regions, where it can grow up to three feet in height. From a botanical perspective, aloe vera belongs to the Asphodelaceae family and is a succulent plant, characterized by its thick, fleshy leaves that store water.

The use of aloe vera dates back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of its use found in ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman medicine.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Aloe vera.

What are the medicinal properties of Aloe vera?

Aloe vera helps with skin conditions such as burns, wounds, eczema, and acne due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It soothes sunburns, reduces itching and inflammation, and promotes wound healing. Aloe vera is also used to treat mouth ulcers and digestive issues.

The active constituents of aloe vera responsible for its medicinal properties are aloin, aloe-emodin, and vitamins A, C, and E. Aloin has laxative properties, while aloe-emodin has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. Vitamins A and C have antioxidant properties, protecting against cell damage.

The most commonly used parts of the aloe vera plant for medicinal purposes are the gel and latex. The gel, extracted from the inner layer of the leaf, is used for topical applications, while the latex, from the outer layer, is used for oral and topical uses. The latex contains aloin, which has laxative properties.

Improper use of aloe vera can cause side effects, including gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding, due to the presence of aloin. Excessive consumption of aloe latex can also lead to electrolyte imbalances.

When using aloe vera medicinally, precautions should be taken to avoid overuse or misuse. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before using aloe vera, and individuals with kidney or liver disease should also consult a healthcare professional due to potential interactions with medications.

What are the horticulural aspects of Aloe vera?

Aloe vera grow well in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade, tolerating temperatures between 40-90°F (4-32°C). Watering should be done sparingly, allowing soil to dry between waterings. A pH range of 8-10 is ideal.

Planting aloe vera is relatively simple. Choose a location with good air circulation, as this helps prevent rot. Plant tubers or offsets in spring or summer, 12-18 inches apart. Water sparingly during first year, then as needed.

Aloe vera can be harvested after 3-5 years, when plants reach 6-8 inches tall. Harvest leaves, leaving a small piece of stem attached. Cut off any damaged or diseased leaves. Use fresh or dried leaves for medicinal purposes.

Common pests and diseases affecting aloe vera include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Leaf spot and leaf blight can occur due to fungal infections. Regular watering and air circulation can help prevent these issues.

What are the botanical aspects of Aloe vera?

Aloe vera is a succulent perennial plant that belongs to the Asphodelaceae family. It has thick, fleshy leaves that are typically 10-30 cm long and 5-10 cm wide, with a waxy coating to prevent water loss. The leaves are arranged oppositely on the stem.

The taxonomical classification of Aloe vera is as follows: Kingdom: Plantae, Phylum: Spermatophyta, Class: Liliopsida, Order: Asparagales, Family: Asphodelaceae, Genus: Aloe, Species: A. vera. It is a member of the Aloe genus, which comprises over 500 species.

There are several variants of Aloe vera, including Aloe vera var. chinensis, Aloe vera var. gigantea, and Aloe vera var. vera. These variants differ in leaf shape, size, and color. Some variants are cultivated for ornamental purposes, while others are used for medicinal purposes.

Aloe vera is native to Africa, but it is now widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. It is often found in arid and semi-arid regions with well-drained soil.

The life cycle of Aloe vera is as follows: the plant grows from a seed, producing a rosette of leaves after 2-5 years. The plant blooms after 5-10 years, producing yellow or orange flowers. After flowering, the plant produces offsets, which can be used for propagation. The plant can live for up to 10-20 years in optimal conditions.

What are the historical aspects of Aloe vera?

Aloe vera is a plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine, cosmetics, and food. Ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome used aloe to treat burns, wounds, and skin conditions. Its gel was also used as a hair and skin moisturizer.

In ancient mythology, aloe was associated with the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite. The plant was said to have been born from the tears of the goddess as she wept for her lover, Adonis. In Egyptian mythology, aloe was linked to the god of protection, Isis. Aloe was also mentioned in the Hindu mythology as a gift from the god of the sun, Surya.

Aloe has been imbued with symbolic meanings across cultures, representing healing, protection, and good fortune. In ancient Egypt, aloe was used in rituals to ward off evil spirits. In Hinduism, aloe is associated with the goddess Lakshmi, symbolizing prosperity and beauty.

Historical texts such as the Ebers Papyrus (circa 1550 BCE) and the Khamuasic Papyrus (circa 1600 BCE) document the medicinal use of aloe in ancient Egypt. The Greek physician Hippocrates (460 BCE - 370 BCE) also mentioned the use of aloe in his writings on medicine.

Archaeological artifacts such as ancient Egyptian mummies and Greek pottery have been found with aloe residues. The Greek physician Dioscorides (40-90 CE) wrote about the medicinal properties of aloe in his book "De Materia Medica", describing its use in treating burns and skin conditions.