What is Aloe? Benefits and Uses

Aloe vera, scientifically known as Aloe barbadensis Miller, is a succulent, subtropical plant from the lily family. Although it resembles a cactus plant in appearance, it is much more closely related to onions, leeks, garlic, tulips, and asparagus.

Aloe has been used for well over 4,000 years in folk medicine and was highly recommended by early physicians, ranging from Pliny the Elder to Chinese and Egyptian practitioners. People from various cultures have relied on aloe for its ability to heal a wide range of human ailments, particularly skin problems such as drying, flaking, itching, and cracking, and fungal conditions like Athletes' Foot. With countless natural remedies and health benefits, it is no wonder ancient Egyptians called aloe “the plant of immortality”.

Aloe Vera: An Ancient Natural Remedy

The Bible speaks of Aloe in over a dozen passages, referring to it as the "bitter herb". The story of Christ's burial tells us that his body was anointed with bitter aloes before being placed in the tomb. The ancient Chinese and Egyptians used aloe to reduce fevers and heal burns and wounds. American Indians, who called Aloe "The Wand of Heaven," believed that anyone touched by the inner sap (what we call the gel) would be cured of their skin disorders.

There are many legends about Aloe. It is said that Aristotle advised Alexander the Great to conquer the Island of Socotra to secure its Aloe harvest for his troops' medical needs. Another legend tells us Queen Cleopatra used Aloe to keep her skin soft and beautiful. We don't know if the story is true, but recent scientific findings do show that—if she did—it undoubtedly worked for her!

Although some still view aloe vera as merely a folk remedy, it's important to recognize that two-thirds of the global population relies on herbal and plant-based treatments. These natural remedies are not only effective but often match or even surpass the benefits of synthetic drugs.

In Africa today, people still pack whole aloe leaves around their wounds, and in South America, mothers coat the arms and legs of children to keep biting insects away.

The Role of Natural Products in Modern Medicine

Aloe Chemist

Where would modern medicine be today, if it were not for the large number of dependable drugs all obtained from plant and other natural sources? The list includes penicillin (probably the most widely-used infection fighter), quinine (used in the treatment of malaria), ephedrine (for asthma and bronchial problems), and diazepam (perhaps the most widely-prescribed tranquilizer). Today, aloe vera is taking its rightful place among these natural remedies, as many in the medical profession have come to understand and appreciate the curative powers of this remarkable plant

In recent times, aloe vera has been called a "miracle plant", "the silent healer", and the "first-aid" plant. In the United States, it has become common to see aloe vera plants in homes—where it may be used, by cutting off a part of a leaf, to spread its cooling, soothing, healing gel on burns, scrapes and bruises, scrapes, and bruises. And the wonderful thing is…it works!

Is Aloe Vera Beneficial for Health?

There are almost 420 different kinds of aloe, ranging from tiny little one-inch plants to others as tall as a tree. While many varieties of aloe have been used with some success in folk medicine remedies, only aloe vera barbadensis Miller has been scientifically proven to possess the remarkable healing and curative powers that have become so widely known throughout the world.

Myth vs. Reality

Until 1943, most of the "proof" used to substantiate the claims made for the healing power of aloe vera was anecdotal—that is, by means of stories handed down from one generation to the next, or on recommendation by a friend or family member, not on scientific evidence.

Then, a doctor working with burn victims "discovered" that aloe vera gel was an astonishingly effective treatment for his burn patients…a fact many had known for centuries! He found that applications of aloe vera substantially reduced healing time, helped relieve the agonizing pain of burns, and even seemed to lessen scarring.

When his findings were published in medical journals, other researchers began investigating the possibility that some of those "old wives' tales" about aloe vera might be based on facts. The rest, as they say, is history!

Modern Research on Aloe Vera

Today, thanks to the dedication and work of hundreds of scientific researchers worldwide, we now know a great deal more about the chemical makeup of aloe vera and its potential health benefits.

The studies by Robert T. Davis, Ph.D., of the Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine, and Ivan E. Danhof, Ph.D., M.D., Director of North Texas Medical Associates, have played a key role in this regard.

Studies have shown that Aloe Vera is a heterogeneous mixture of more than 200 nutritional substances, including polysaccharides, glycoproteins, amino acids, enzymes, vitamins, and minerals.

Because of the determined efforts of these scientists, aloe vera is taking its rightful place among the effective homeopathic remedies of the medical world.

Health Benefits of Aloe Vera

Based on modern research, aloe vera has been proven to provide a range of health benefits and is used in cosmetics, herbal remedies, and food supplements.

1. Natural Skincare

Aloe vera gel is great for your skin. You can apply the organic aloe vera gel to your skin for protection against UV rays and anti-aging purposes. However, it can also be used for healing and soothing effects.

Anti-aging and Moisturizing: Aloe vera contains natural chemicals that help the skin preserve moisture and soften it. It also contains stimulants that produce collagen and elastin fibers, which increase skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles.
Protection Against UV Radiation: Studies reveal that aloe vera gel protects against radiation damage to the skin. Aloe vera gel produces an antioxidant protein in the skin, which prevents UV-induced skin damage.
Treating Skin Conditions and Healing: Aloe vera promotes the growth of new skin cells. It has healing properties that help in treating skin conditions such as acne, cold sores (herpes), psoriasis, swelling and redness, cuts and scrapes, insect bites, minor burns, and sunburns.

2. Natural Source of Vitamin C

Organic aloe vera juice is a trusted source of vitamin C, which is vital for overall health and maintaining a healthy immune system. 8 oz of fortified aloe vera juice provides approximately 9.1 grams of vitamin C.

3. Provides Low-calorie Hydration

Sufficient fluid intake is vital for many of the body’s key functions. Aloe vera juice provides a low-calorie source of hydration with only 36 calories per 8 oz. It’s a great alternative to sugary drinks that have a high sugar and carbohydrate content.

4. Helps Control Blood Sugar Levels

Diabetic patients can potentially benefit from organic aloe vera juice as it can control blood sugar. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, aloe vera juice provides potential benefits in maintaining blood sugar levels for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes patients.

5. Prevents Stomach Ulcers

According to a 2014 study, aloe vera juice aids digestion and prevents stomach ulcers. It contains anti-inflammatory compounds, including vitamin C, which can provide numerous digestive health benefits.

The Truth About Aloe Vera Products: Are They All the Same?

No. While a product may be advertised as "Containing Aloe Vera", it does not always mean that the product contains the right kind or the right amount of aloe vera gel in its formula.

As consumers have become more aware of the benefits of aloe, many manufacturers have started to add aloe to their products to increase "sales appeal"—sometimes only enough to be able to legally list it on the label!

It's vital to read the ingredients list on the products you buy: if aloe vera is listed at or near the bottom, the product probably contains only a small, ineffective amount of aloe vera.

Research has shown that to be effective, most therapeutic products must contain at least

10% aloe vera gel—the more, the better. If the aloe-containing products you buy don't have the right concentration of aloe vera gel, you won't get all the benefits.

Experience the full range of benefits this incredible natural healer has to offer with the best Miracle Aloe products.

FAQs

Why does aloe vera smell like an onion?

Aloe vera and onions belong to the same plant family, i.e., the Liliaceae family. So, the oniony smell from its leaves might be due to its close relation to onions.

Is an aloe plant a cactus?

No, it is not a cactus. Although it appears like a cactus, the aloe vera plant belongs to the lily family and is related to onions, leeks, garlic, tulips, and asparagus.

Do aloe vera plants need sunlight?

According to the New York Botanical Garden, you must put your aloe plant in a place where it receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Otherwise, your plant will grow weak and lose its color and texture.

What does ‘Aloe Vera’ mean?

The word ‘Aloe Vera’ derives its roots from the Arabic and Latin languages. ‘Aloe’ comes from the Arabic word “Alloeh,” meaning “shining bitter substance,” while “vera” in Latin means “true.”

How long does aloe vera gel last?

Fresh aloe vera gel, when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, lasts up to a week. Adding vitamin C or E extends its shelf life to two months. For long-term storage, freezing in small portions, such as ice cube trays, keeps it usable for up to six months.

How often should I water an aloe vera plant?

Aloe vera plants should not be overwatered as they prefer dry conditions. Depending on the weather conditions, aloes should be watered once in 7-14 days.

Can humans eat aloe vera?

The skin and gel inside the aloe vera leaf are generally safe to eat, but it may be unsafe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, washing away the traces of latex is important as it may not be safe to consume it in large amounts.

What is Aloe? Benefits and Uses

Aloe Vera: An Ancient Natural Remedy

The Role of Natural Products in Modern Medicine