What is Aloe Vera ?

Aloe Vera is a tropical plant, common medicinal plant used for thousands of years on burns and cuts. In this modern world, it is used in a plethora of cosmetics, and consumed as a healthful drink.

The scientific name of Aloe Vera is Aloe barbadensis. Aloe is derived from the ancient Arabic name alloeh meaning “bitter”, vera means true or “genuine”, and barbadensis is a form of the word Barbados. Other common and ancient names are Curacao Aloe, Barbados Aloe, and Lily of the Desert, the plant of immortality and the medicine plant.

Aloe Vera plant Aloe vera is a leafy succulent that grows in a rosette fashion on hot, well-drained soils. The leaves are spotted when young but take on a uniform light green color with age. They can reach 2 feet in length and are edged with soft spines. Older plants produce an 18-inch long stalk from the center of the rosette that is topped with nodding cylindrical yellow flowers about 1-inch long.

Aloe Vera is one of the most widely recognized skin care components. It aids the skin replenish lost moisture and when applied to skin injuries, minor wounds, burns, rashes, or wounds, it acts immediately and effectively to cure and soothe.

Cosmetics industries add sap or other derivatives from Aloe vera to products such as makeup, tissues, moisturizers, soaps, sunscreens, shampoos and lotions. Aloe vera gel is supposed to be useful for dry skin conditions, particularly eczema around the eyes and sensitive facial skin. Most providers, however, degrade the polysaccharides during manufacturing.

Aloe Vera Care and Cultivation

Wild Aloe vera Growing aloe vera plants is relatively easy especially if cultivated in frost-free and warm climates. The species requires well-drained sandy potting soil in moderate light such as the sun.

When growing aloe plant indoors, it must be planted in a pot or other containers that ensures sufficient drainage. The use of a good quality commercial potting mix to extra perlite, granite grit, or coarse sand is recommended.

Alternatively, pre-packaged 'cacti and succulent mixes' may also be used. Potted plants should be allowed to completely dry prior to re-watering. During winter, aloe vera may become dormant, during which little moisture is required. In areas that receive frost or snow the species is best kept indoors or in heated glasshouses.