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Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a semi-topical plant with a history of usage by humans dating back to biblical times. The earliest records on usage of Aloe Vera by mankind date back to more than 2000 years. Alexander the great used them to treat his wounded soldiers. The secret behind the beauty of Cleopatra is believed to be the application of aloe. The bible also has mentioned the use of aloe. Aloe Vera has found place in Ayurvedic science since time immemorial. Ever since, aloe was a first aid plant in many houses in the world. In due course, aloe has become very popular as an ingredient in Pharma / cosmetic formulations, more so in USA, Europe and the Far East.

This miracle plant contains many ingredients including amino acids, minerals, vitamins and enzymes which makes it useful in a wide range of applications in cosmetics (skin creams, shampoos, soaps, hair oil- anti balding / premature graying, after – shave gel, moisturizers), medicine ( anti inflammatory ointment, digestion aid, anti ulcer ) and food supplements ( health drink, nutria spread)  to name a few. Aloe Vera finds wider application today in the global market, owing to its unique combination of phyto chemicals in baby care, anti- cancer, anti – aids, anti – diabetic treatments, cardio – vascular care, dentistry, gastro – intestinal care, arthritis, veterinary care.

Aloe Vera works in synergy with other medications, increasing their efficacy, without conflict in desired results. Aloe Vera by itself may not be a cure for all ailments, but it strengthens the greatest advantage of Aloe is that it has no known adverse side effects

Aloe Vera belongs to the family liliacae is mainly cultivated for its thick fleshy leaves from which the yellow  resinous  latex or yellow sap or anthraquinones ( the bitter yellow liquid between the leaf rind and gel ) exudes and can be used as a laxative or purgative. If it is not processed properly it turned out to be poisonous. Nearly there are about 150 species in aloe Vera and these species belong to the succulent family like any other lilies or onions. In India  Aloe Vera has boon referred to as “kumari” in Ayurvedic treatments where it was popularly used to treat the sore eyes, abrasions and wounds.

Origin:

African continent

Spread:

Aloe is grown largely in South Texas, USA, Mexico, India, South America, Central America, Australia and Africa.

Family

Liliacae

Commonly called as:

Miracle plant, healing plant, plant of immortality, fountain of youth.