Asphodelaceae
Aloe Vera
Aloe barbadensis
✓ Generally Safe
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: Arabian Peninsula, North Africa
Also known as: True Aloe, Burn Plant, Medicine Plant
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Parts Used
Leaf
Therapeutic Uses
Burns, sunburn, wound healing (topical — multiple RCTs), psoriasis, eczema, acne, constipation (latex — powerful), IBS, gingivitis (gel mouthwash). One of the most widely used topical healing plants.
Herbal Actions
Wound healing, anti-inflammatory, emollient, laxative (latex), antifungal, immunostimulant
Active Constituents
Acemannan (polysaccharide), anthraquinones (aloin, barbaloin — latex), enzymes (bradykinase), vitamins A/C/E, minerals, amino acids
Preparation Methods
🧴 Salve/Balm☕ Herbal Tea💊 Capsule
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 50–100ml fresh gel juice 2x daily for internal use |
| Tincture | Gel: apply liberally topically 2–3x daily |
| Notes | IMPORTANT: Distinguish gel (inner leaf — safe) from latex (outer leaf — powerful laxative, toxic in excess). Gel for topical use: fresh plant superior to commercial preparations. Internal gel use: 50ml 2x daily for IBD. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
Possible — consult doctor
Contraindications: Latex form contraindicated in pregnancy, IBS, Crohn's, children under 12. May interact with cardiac glycosides and diuretics. Do not confuse gel and latex preparations.
Side Effects: Latex: severe diarrhea, cramping, hypokalemia. Gel: very well tolerated. Contact dermatitis rare.