Aloe vera, also known as the Medicinal Aloe, Chinese Aloe, Indian Aloe, True Aloe,Barbados AloeorBurn Aloe,is a species of Aloe, native to Africa. There are over 300 different types of aloe, but only a mere few were used traditionally as an herbal medicine.The species has been used in herbal medicine since at least 0 AD. Extracts from A. vera are widely used in the cosmetics and alternative medicine industries being marketed as variously having rejuvenating, healing or soothing properties.There is, however, little scientific evidence of the efficacy of A. vera extracts for either cosmetic or medicinal purposes and what positive evidence is available is frequently contradicted by other studies.

Today, the gel found in the leaves is used for soothing minor burns, wounds, and various skin conditions like eczema and ringworm. The use of this herbal medicine was popularized in the 1950’s in many Western Countries. The gel’s effect is nearly immediate, plus it also applies a layer over wounds that is said to reduce the chance of any infection.

Planted in Nassau County Extension Demonstration Garden

Sold at Nassau County Master Gardener Plant Sale