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The Aloe Vera plant is an herb resembling the cactus in appearance, but it is actually a perennial succulent belonging to the Lily family. Its botanical name is aloe barbadensis. Aloe Vera, (vera is a Latin word which stands for true) was so named in ancient times because it was thought that this particular species of Aloe had the best medicinal properties. (Aloe Vera, The Ancient Egyptian Medicine Plant, by Max B. Skousen, Aloe Vera Research Institute).
Why it works.
The gel is the most ingenious mixture of antibiotic, astringent, coagulating agents, while also being a pain and scar inhibitor and a growth stimulator. (Aloe Vera, The Ancient Egyptian Medicine Plant, by Max B. Skousen, Aloe Vera Research Institute).
Traditional Use
Aloe gel has been used to treat inflammation for more than 2500 years. The fresh gel is widely used as a folk medicine for minor burns and sunburn, as well as minor cuts and scrapes. Aloe Vera juice used as a beverage is said to aid digestion and to reduce the effects of arthritis, stomach ulcers, diabetes and a variety of other conditions. (Herbs for Your Health by Steven Foster)
Clinical Evidence
There has been a significant evolution in our scientific understanding of the science of Aloe Vera during the past decade. Research throughout the world, especially in the United States, Korea, Japan and Europe, has revealed more of the basic biological mechanisms for the pharmacological activity of aloe, and new clinical indications for its use in the treatment of human disease and regulating metabolism of the human body.
Today there are solid laboratory testing procedures to measure the efficacy of aloe products in order to guarantee that consumers get the pure aloe vera that they are paying for.
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