Aloe, native to Africa, is also known as "lily of the desert", the
"plant of immortality", and the "medicine plant". The name was
derived from the Arabic alloeh meaning "bitter" because of the
bitter liquid found in the leaves. In 1500 B.C. Egyptians recorded
use of the herbal plant in treating burns, infections and parasites.
There are over 500 species of aloe growing in climates worldwide.
Ancient Greeks, Arabs and Spaniards have used the plant throughout
the millennia. African hunters still rub the gel on their bodies to
reduce perspiration and their scent.
Extensive research since the 1930's has shown that the clear gel
has a dramatic ability to heal wounds, ulcers and burns by putting a
protective coating on the affected areas and speeding up the healing
rate.
The plant is about 96% water. The rest of it contains active
ingredients including essential oil, amino acids, minerals,
vitamins, enzymes and glycoproteins. Modern healers have used it
since the 1930's. Many liquid health treatments are made, some
combining aloe juice with other plants and herbs. The juice is
soothing to digestive tract irritations, such as colitis and peptic
ulcers.
As a food supplement, aloe is said to facilitate digestion, aid
in blood and lymphatic circulation, as well as kidney, liver and
gall bladder functions.
Aloe contains at least three anti-inflammatory fatty acids that
are helpful for the stomach, small intestine and colon. It naturally
alkalizes digestive juices to prevent overacidity - a common cause
of indigestion. It helps cleanse the digestive tract by exerting a
soothing, balancing effect.
