Aloe vera is a succulent plant species. It mainly grows in tropical climates. It is cultivated for medicinal purposes. Aloe is sometimes used for decorative purposes too. It is used in consumer products, like juice, skin lotion or ointments for minor burns and sunburns. You can buy aloe vera juice with Fiber Online from www.herbsjoy.com.
Aloe vera is a stemless succulent plant which grows to a height of 60 – 100 cm. The leaves of aloe vera are thick and fleshy and its colour varies from green to grey green. The margin of the leaf is serrated and has small thorns. The flowers are produced in summer.
Aloe vera is grown as an ornamental plant as well. It is more popular with modern gardeners as a medicinal plant and for its interesting flowers. The species can survive in areas of low natural rainfall, although it cannot tolerate heavy frost or snow. It is resistant to most insects but spider mites, mealy bugs, scale insects, and aphid species may damage the plant.
Uses of Aloe vera
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Aloe vera is known for its soothing, moisturizing and healing properties.
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It is effective in reducing blood glucose in diabetic patients and in lowering blood lipid levels in the case of hyperlipidaemia.
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It also heals wounds.
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It offers protection from sunburn.
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It is effective in healing first or second degree burns.
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Topical application of aloe vera can be effective for genital herpes and psoriasis.
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Aloe vera gel is used as an ingredient in yogurts, beverages and some desserts.
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Aloe vera juice is known to improve the health of the digestive system.
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Aloe vera is used in Ayurvedic medicines as a multipurpose skin treatment.
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Aloe vera is used as a moisturizer and anti-irritant to reduce chafing of the nose.
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Cosmetic companies add sap or other derivatives from Aloe vera to products such as makeup, moisturizers, soaps, sunscreens, shaving cream, and shampoos.
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Aloe vera extracts are used for the dilution of semen for the artificial fertilization of sheep.
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It is sometimes used as a fresh food preservative or for water conservation in small farms.
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It has been suggested that bio fuels can be obtained from Aloe vera seeds.
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Aloe leaves sliced lengthwise can be used as a biodegradable body scrub in the shower.
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It can be used to reduce the sting or itch due to insect bites.
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Aloe vera reduces tissue damage caused by frost bite.
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It can help fight Athlete’s Foot.
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Swab aloe vera over blisters for quick relief.
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It can be used as an antidote to allergic skin reactions.
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It can help prevent pimples and treat acne.
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Signs of aging skin and wrinkles can be reversed.
When grown in pots, the plant needs well drained, sandy soil, and bright, sunny conditions. However, Aloe vera plants can burn under too much sunlight or the plants may shrivel when the pot does not drain water.
Aloe vera may become dormant during winters. The plant is best protected from snow by keeping it indoors or in heated glasshouses. Aloe vera is cultivated on a large scale in Australia, Bangladesh, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, China, Mexico, India, Jamaica, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and the USA.