Aloe Vera (Aloe vera)

in #herbs5 years ago (edited)

Aloe vera flowers


Common names: Aloe vera

Taxonomic name: Aloe vera

Family: Asphodelaceae

Uses: skin complaints, constipation

Area of origin: Arabian peninsula

Warnings: if taken internally, Aloe vera may have interactions with prescribed drugs


Aloe Vera is a very famous herb, but some folks aren’t aware of its full potential.

We all know of the soothing gel that can be found in the leaves. Aloe is well known for dry skin disorders, burns and cuts, but did you know it has other uses?

The gel’s soothing nature can be used to settle stomach problems, especially those caused by inflammation. It also feeds the gut biota and keeps them healthy. It can also help one lose weight by suppressing appetite.


The gel, surrounded by yellow latex.



Inside the leaf is a large amount of gel and a small amount of yellow sap. Taken internally, Aloe vera is quite the potent laxative. It is the yellow latex that is found beneath the skin of a leaf is such a powerful laxative and can clean you out quite explosively, so take it very easy until a little experience using it. It can also purge you the other way – through making you vomit if you have more than a little.

If you your pipes are in need of an urgent, thorough, cleaning, there’s little better than a spoonful of Aloe!


Harvesting is best when the tips turn pink.



Aloe can be harvested any time but the best time is when the tips turn pink.





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Thank you for sharing the different uses! It also has beautiful flowers, though mine have never bloomed.

Ours blooms every year. The nectar eating birds flock to it.

Wow it must be in the ground then. Mine are in pots

Ours grew too well in pots, so we moved them to the ground. The trick is not to use too much water. They like it dry and rough.

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very nice, thanks!