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Focus on Herbs: Aloe
Vera
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by Lynne Latella
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One of the few non-narcotic
drugs that started a war, aloe vera can be found in many kitchens as a
burn remedy because it can sooth and heal wounds. Alexander the Great
sent his army to seize an island near Somalia to obtain the plant just
because he heard it could heal his soldiers' wounds.
Related to garlic, lilies and tulips, aloe has been referenced in
ancient Egyptian documents as a remedy for skin problems and
infections. In fact, it was so highly regarded that it was often found
in the tombs of pharaohs. The Greeks recommended it for hair loss,
ulcers, hemorrhoids and constipation. Carried from Spain to other parts
of the world by traders, it was introduced into Ayurvedic medicine as a
remedy for worms, menstrual pain and skin problems.
The healing properties of aloe were first recognized in the United
States in the 1930s when a woman's x-ray burns were healed with the gel
from the leaves of the aloe plant. Subsequent studies have shown that
aloe can heal first and second degree burns, relieve sunburn and eczema
and significantly minimize rashes caused by poison ivy. Some studies
indicate that aloe has been successfully used to lower blood sugar and
cholesterol, fight yeast infections and eliminate infections.
Cleopatra used to make her skin shine by massaging aloe vera into it.
Indeed, it is used today in many cosmetic preparations, including
lotions, shampoo and soap. However, aloe is most effective by using the
fresh gel directly from the plant's leaves.
In commercial products, aloe is more potent in liquid form. The more
viscous preparations contain a thickening agent.
Side effects from internal ingestion of aloe vera include cramps and
diarrhea. With any health issues, a physician should be consulted
before taking this herb internally.
Besides live plants, some of the aloe vera products offered by the
Co-op are the following:
• Skin Gels – Aubrey Aloe, Aloe Life, Organix South, Nee Leaf and Aloe
Gel, Mill Creek Aloe and Lily of the Desert
• Aloe Juices – Aloe Life, Aloe Force, Lily of the Desert, Nature's
Way, George's Aloe. Many of these blend aloe with other herbs to help
with specific health issues.
• Soap – Kiss My Face (one of the soap choices contains aloe.)
• Capsules containing aloe can be special ordered.
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