Aloe Vera

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Aloe vera's use can be traced back 6,000 years to early Egyptian civilization, where the plant was depicted on stone carvings. Known as the "plant of immortality," aloe was presented as a burial gift to deceased pharaohs.

Common Names -- aloe vera, aloe, burn plant, lily of the desert, elephant's gall

What Is Aloe Vera Used For?

How It Is Used

Aloe leaves contain a clear gel that is often used as a topical ointment. The green part of the leaf that surrounds the gel can be used to produce a juice or a dried substance (called latex) that is taken by mouth.

What the Science Says

Aloe Vera JuiceAloe latex contains strong laxative compounds. Products made with various components of aloe (aloin, aloe-emodin, and barbaloin) were at one time regulated by the FDA as oral over-the-counter (OTC) laxatives. In 2002, the FDA required that all OTC aloe laxative products be removed from the U.S. market or reformulated because the companies that manufactured them did not provide the necessary safety data. That has all changed now, and aloe-vera can safely be used to combat constipation with gentle, doctor-approved products such as

Early studies show that topical aloe gel may help heal burns and abrasions. One study, however, showed that aloe gel should not be used on deep surgical wounds, as it could inhibit healing.

Side Effects and Cautions

Other forms of aloe vera are:

Aloe Vera: Natural Hygenic Cleansing Care

For personal hygeine, Aloe Vera is a wonderful alternative to drying retail soaps, deoderants, shampoos, conditioners, etc. Vitabase carries personally recommended products for all of these! Check them out:

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