By Mark Lange Ph.D.
16 October 2007
Aloe Vera
The aloe plant is one of the world's oldest and most frequently used natural supplements. Aloe juice, gel, and leaves have played a role in medicine since the 4th century B.C., when ancient Greek doctors obtained it from Arab traders for its healing properties. Using aloe topically gained popularity in the United States in the 1930s, with reports of its success in soothing x-ray burns. Today, the aloe plant is used in the production of a wide range of products created to treat what ails you, from digestive tract issues to mouth ulcers.
Aloe: Then and Now
Christopher Columbus once said, "Four vegetables are indispensable for the well-being of man: Wheat, the grape, the olive and aloe. The first nourishes him, the second raises his spirit, the third brings him harmony, and the fourth cures him." Many people would agree with Columbus that the aloe plant is worth keeping around for its bountiful benefits. It is one of nature's most useful plants, and one that people have been turning to for centuries.
Today, aloe juice and aloe leaves continue to be a natural, reliable ingredient in both topical and ingested formulas designed to promote wellness. Aloe vera gel is the most commonly known form of aloe, and is used in skin lotions and sun blocks for its ability to protect skin. The aloe gel is the thin, clear jelly-like substance that comes from within the leaves and is used to treat minor skin irritations, burns and eczema. The gel has agents that control pain and inflammation and helps to repair damaged cells. The emollient effect of the gel is due to the polysaccharides, or long chains of sugar, contained in the gel. It is theorized that aloe's anti-inflammatory effect may result from blockage of the conversion of histidine to histamine as a result of the inhibition of histidine decarboxylase. Wound healing is believed to result from increased blood flow to the wounded area.
Aloe juice, aloe gel, aloe vera and other derivatives of the aloe plant have supported the health of people from all over the world throughout history. Known mainly for its ability to soothe sunburns or minor pains, the botanical is a precious resource that can be used to treat an extensive range of ailments, including many digestive problems. Aloe, a plant recognized for its unique properties for centuries, will no doubt play a significant role in consumers' health well into the 21st century.
Try all natural Aloe products and see the benefits they can have on your health. Aloe Health for more of our all natural products.
