Aloin, a compound found in the exudate of some Aloe species, was the common ingredient in over the counter (OTC) laxative products in the United States until 2002 when the Food and drugs administration banned it because the companies manufacturing it failed to provide the necessary safety data. It has potential toxicity, with side effects occurring at some dose levels both when ingested or applied topically. Although toxicity may be less when aloin is removed by processing, Aloe vera that contains aloin in excess amounts may induce side effects.

It’s juice is marketed to support the health of the digestive system, but there is neither scientific evidence nor regulatory approval to support this claim. The extracts and quantities typically used for such purposes appear to be dose-dependent for toxic effects.

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It is used in traditional medicine as a skin treatment. In Ayurvedic medicine it is called kathalai, as are extracts from agave.

It is used on facial tissues where it is promoted as a moisturiser and anti-irritant to reduce chafing of the nose. Cosmetic companies commonly add sap or other derivatives from this extraordinary plant to products such as makeup, tissues, moisturizers, soaps, sunscreens, incense, shaving cream, or shampoos. A review of academic literature notes that its inclusion in many hygiene products is due to its “moisturizing emollient effect”.

Other potential uses for extracts of this succulent herb include the dilution of semen for the artificial fertilization of sheep, as a fresh food preservative, or for water conservation in small farms. It has also been suggested that biofuels could be obtained from aloe vera seeds.

It is also very beneficial for human body, beginning with improving the digestive system all the way to preserving food, it can result in optimal health in the long run. It strengthens the immune system, delays the aging process, cures dermatitis, alleviates menstrual problems, reduces arthritis pain, heals wounds, cures nausea, eliminates ulcers, lowers blood sugar levels, prevents diabetes, reduces oxidative stress, inhibits cancerous growth, heals the side effects of radiotherapy treatments, promotes hair growth, and soothes acid reflux symptoms.

This widely useful plant also lowers cholesterol and triglycerides, improves cardiovascular functions, alleviates joint and muscle pain, enhances life span, and cures gum diseases. This plant has been used for ages to alleviate pain, since it has excellent anti-inflammatory properties.

Studies are still being conducted to discover more benefits of the aloe plant that will undoubtedly make it even more important in the medicinal practices of cultures all around the world.

Aloe vera is also known as medicinal aloe, and some of its common names are Lily of the Desert, Burn Plant, and Elephant’s Gall. It belongs to the family of succulent plants in the genus ‘Aloe’. The origin of this plant is believed to be in Sudan and has been used for more than 6,000 years. The great virtues of this plant have been recognized by many civilizations, including the Egyptians, Spanish, Persians, Greek, Italians, Africans, Japanese and Indians. It grows best in warm, dry climates and is densely found in India, Africa, and other arid zones. This species has a wide usage in herbal medicines. The bright plant has compounds such as mannans, polysaccharides, lectins, and anthraquinones that are extremely beneficial for human health.

This succulent plant is often a stemless or sometimes very short-stemmed juicy plant that grows 60–100 cm (24–39 in) height, and the offsets spread out wide. The leaves of this plant are thick and fleshy; and the color varies from green to grey-green. Some varieties of this plant have white flecks on the upper and lower portions of the stem surfaces. The margin of the leaves is like saw-tooth and the flowers bloom during the summer. This plant can be easily grown both indoors and outdoors.

The soothing nature of this plant has been known and respected by the people who believe in naturopathy. It has 18 amino acids that work in association with other compounds of the human body to deliver numerous health benefits. It is best known for its natural healing of the skin, wounds and other skin issues. However, it also has many other benefits like curing heart diseases, diabetes, asthma and arthritis. If you include aloe vera products in your regular nutritional plan, you will automatically notice a regenerated body and an attractive, youthful appearance.

Aloe vera with many uses is a succulent plant, and its benefits are typically obtained by breaking off a stalk to extract the gel-like substance within, and either applying this topically to the skin, or ingesting it. The gel can also be combined with other natural ingredients to form part of your health or beauty routine.

Availability of Aloe Vera

You can purchase aloe vera plants at your local plant nursery; there are also many online retailers from which you can buy one. There are also a myriad of health and beauty products on the market that contain this herb; you should be able to buy these from your local supermarkets, pharmacies, and of course online.