Aloe Vera FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Aloe Vera?

Ans: Aloe Vera, (Latin: “True Aloe”) botanically known as Aloe Barbadensis, is a plant from the lily family related to the garlic and onion family. It is a succulent plant that grows well in a wide array of climates, it thrives well in tropical areas as well as some of the more arid areas of the world. Aloe Vera is most widely used in cosmetic products and in alternative medicine remedies. The juice is often promoted for it’s healing and soothing properties. This plant has been used medicinally for thousands of years, and has been known for its healing qualities almost for as long as records have been kept.

Q: Isn’t Aloe A Cactus?

Ans: No it is not a cactus, it is in fact part of the lily family’s succulent aloes. Most people mistake the plant as being a member of the cactus family because of the thick fleshy serrated leaves.

Q: Which Parts Of The Plant Are Most Commonly Used?

Ans: Aloe Vera Gel - widely promoted as an excellent treatment for wounds, burns, and other skin ailments - including speeding up healing and reducing risk of infection. Aloe Vera Gel is best known to be used externally, however, it may be prepared as a 100% juice, stabilised with vitamin C and is the best method for reaping the full benefits of the Aloe plant. Overuse is not recommended.

Aloe Latex - the yellow sap under the skin is a bitter yellow liquid that is said to be beneficial for the digestive system. Commercially it is often used in laxative preparations for the treatment of constipation. Care must be taken not to ingest large amounts of the latex as severe diarrhea with dehydration may result.

Q: Where Does Aloe Vera Come From?

Ans: Aloe Vera was originally native to North Africa. Today, more than 500 species of Aloe have been reported around the world including Asia Pacific, Asia, Africa, The United States and Europe. The leaves are thick and fleshy in texture and green to grey-green in colour. The colour is mostly dependent on the amount of sun exposure the plant receives. Flowers are produced on a spike up to 90 cm tall. Aloe Vera is quite easy to care for as long as it is in a frost-free climate.

Q: Does Oral Use Have Side Effects?

Ans: Aloe Vera is not associated with significant side effects, however do not use Aloe internally without first talking to your health practitioner if you have any serious health issues or are on any medications. Abdominal cramps and diarrhea have been reported with oral use of Aloe Vera if the latex has not been adequately removed.

Q: Does It Contain Any Beneficial Vitamins?

Ans: Aloe Vera juice contains 18 amino acids, a wealth of vitamins, b1, b2, b3, b6, c, and choline, it also includes the minerals - calcium, chlorine, copper, iron, magnesium lactate, manganese, potassium, silicon, sodium, and sulfur. However, its uniqueness lies in its wealth of phytochemicals (plant chemicals) such as the organic acids chrysophanic, salicylic, succinic, and uric, polysaccharides such as acemannan, enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase, and various resins.

Q: In What Forms Is Aloe Vera Available Commercially?

Ans: Aloe vera is widely available as gel, spray, lotion, liquid, cream and in the form of a capsule. There are many preparations that can be bought over-the-counter, or you can prepare it yourself from the Aloe Vera plant available at all good plant nurseries, which you can easily grow in your own garden. There are many varieties, so make sure you purchase one from a reputable nursery. You will need proper instructions on how to prepare the gel in your own kitchen as the gel has to be stabilised.

Q: Is It True That Aloe Vera Is Good For Treating Burns?

Ans: Aloe vera is, extremely useful for treating burns of any kind including sunburn. It quickly reduces the severity of the burn and soothes the skin. Aloe Vera is known as a contact healer as it’s cooling effect offers instant relief from burns and will typically prevent, or greatly reduce, blistering when applied immediately after receiving a burn.

Q: Is Aloe Anti-Bacterial?

Ans: Some studies have shown that Aloe Vera has anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties.

Q: Is Aloe Good For Your Skin?

Ans: It is quite beneficial in treating skin infections and enhances the overall health and glow of your skin. Aloe is also said to help remove dead skin cells and promote the growth of new healthy living cells.

Q: What Sort Of Conditions Is Aloe Vera Used For?

Ans: Listed below is a condensed list of Aloe Vera uses:

General Use - relieves bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic conditions

Blood Conditions - helps with blood circulation

Gastrointestinal Conditions - naturally alkalizes digestive juices to prevent over-acidity, also relieves symptoms of indigestion

Immune System Conditions - strengthens the body's natural resistance by improving immune function

Liver Conditions - assists liver and gall bladder functions

Q: Can Aloe Vera Assist With Fighting Cancer?

Ans: For the past thirty years researchers have known that there is significant evidence that Aloe Vera is highly effective in fighting cancer, however none of the studies have been conducted on humans as yet.

Other Aloe Vera Topics:

5 Free Aloe Vera Juice Recipes That Make You Feel Great

7 Tips For Using Aloe Vera

Why Aloe Vera Makes You Feel Great

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