Aloe:

— La'NA'

Aloe Vera, also known as “lily of the desert”, the “plant of immortality”, and the “medicine plant”, derives its name from the Arabic alloeh—meaning bitter—for the bitter liquid in its leaves.  Originally from Africa, the herbal plant was used as long ago as 1500 B.C. by the Egyptians to treat burns, infections and parasites.  Today, over 500 species of aloe grow in climates worldwide, and its applications span the globe.

Believe it or not, the plant is 96 percent water.  So what’s the magic delivering its proven, dramatic ability to heal wounds, ulcers and burns?  The answer lies in the gel, which contains essential oil, amino acids, minerals, vitamins, enzymes and glycoproteins.  Healing powers result from their combined ability to increase oxygen to the skin while promoting synthesis and strength of tissue.

Consequently, savvy cooks keep aloe plants in the kitchen.  By breaking the leaf and allowing the gel to coat burned skin, one feels immediate relief.  Blisters, too, will be prevented.  Meanwhile, health and beauty experts use aloe to keep the skin supple as well as to control acne and eczema.  It also soothes itching from insect bites and allergies.

You might have heard of aloe vera extract.  The remedy is made by pulverizing whole leaves of the plant.  In contrast, aloe comes from the inner leaf.

For summertime and anytime, Aloe Vera is—simply—the answer to numerous skin tissue issues.

Help protect your skin when in the great outdoors. 

Books about Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera (Woodland Health Series)

Aloe Vera: Nature’s Legendary Healer

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