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Chinese Herbs: Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera - The Universal Herb

Aloe vera is also known by the name medicinal aloe. There are several species of Aloe vera, but they all share common appearance traits. All Aloe veras are stemless or almost-stemless plants with outspread succulent leaves. These leaves are green to gray-green in color, and some varieties have white spots on top of and under the leaves. The sides of these leaves are barbed with short but sharp thorny outgrowths.

Aloe vera grows in tropical regions. The succulence of the plant's leaves allows it to survive the dry conditions of areas with little rainfall. Sandy, well-drained soil is the best kind for Aloe vera. It does not fare well with frost, so cultivators beware.

One of the spotted varieties is called Aloe vera var. chinensis, a result of it being found in China. It is believed that Aloe vera was introduced to China in the 17th century. Since then it has been part of the Chinese pharmacopeia and is used to treat many conditions.

Aloe vera is usually used in juice or gel form. Even outside Chinese medicine, Aloe vera is taken to reduce stomach acidity. It is believed to balance the chemicals in the gastrointestinal tract, and is ingested for improved digestive functions. Aloin, a substance also found in Aloe vera, was used as a laxative. Makers of Aloe vera juice usually process it to remove the Aloin content.

Health Benefits of Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is used in Chinese medicine primarily for external treatment. Aloe vera gel squeezed out from the leaves is applied directly to skin to treat various skin conditions. Athlete's foot is shown to be curable with Aloe vera treatment. Burns, bruises, cuts, scrapes, and rashes are treated in the same manner. The antibacterial properties of the gel destroy the bacteria, preventing infection. Other compounds help accelerate cell regeneration and healing. Muscular pains are also said to be reduced with the application of this gel.

Insect stings and bites are also treated with it. Swelling is reduced and itchiness stops with the application of gel. The antibacterial properties also make it useful in treating acne. Aloe vera makes for a great skin moisturizer. Extracts from aloe vera are used to boost the immune system, treat respiratory system infections, and relieve allergic reactions.

Other problems that can be treated with Aloe vera are hair loss, herpes, eczema, psoriasis, and other fungal infections. It is used to stimulate bile production and increase appetite. Some uterus, liver, and colon disorders are also treated with Aloe vera. It also plays a role in obesity treatment.

Recent studies have shown that Aloe vera extracts may be useful in treating diabetes and excess lipids in the blood. These are attributed to the presence of compounds like polysaccharides, mannans, anthraquinones, and lectins.

Aloe vera is a popular ingredient because everyone believes in how well it soothes and rejuvenates. Some of the most common products containing Aloe vera in one form or another are juices, packaged gels, and beauty products. The appeal of Aloe vera is not limited to Chinese medicine -- in fact it is also used in other traditional medicinal systems. Aloe vera truly is universal in its popularity and usefulness.