Aloe Vera Plant Information

Habitat

• Aloe vera is native to northern Africa and flourishes in similar climates throughout the world. It is commercially grown in Latin America, the Caribbean, the southern United States and in Africa. Although it cannot withstand cold weather for long, it can nevertheless survive in cities with gentle winters.

Parts

• Above ground, the aloe vera plant has three main parts. The exterior is a tough rind that protects it from insects and larger herbivores. Immediately beneath the rind is sap, known as aloe latex. It's bitter taste and laxative properties are a further defense. Beneath the sap, however, is the pulp of the aloe plant, which when pulverized produces aloe vera gel.

Medicinal Uses

• Aloe vera gel is a potent topical medicine. It soothes burns while also promoting the growth of new skin. It can also ease the pain of certain skin diseases such as herpes. It has natural anti-inflammatory properties. Meanwhile, aloe latex can be ingested to induce bowel movement. Side effects include cramping, which make aloe latex less-than-ideal for ingestion.

Active Components

• Although aloe vera gel is primarily made of water, it has two active ingredients which account for its healing properties. The first are glycoproteins, which alleviate pain and inflammation. The second are polysaccharides, which promote the growth of new skin.

Tending

• You can grow aloe vera in your home. If you live in a warmer climate such as southern Florida or Texas, you might be able to raise an aloe vera plant outdoors. In cooler climates, you can raise them indoors with the proper climate control. If growing indoors, be sure to keep the pot near a southern-facing window so the plant gets plenty of sunlight. During the summer and spring, you might even choose to keep it outside. Water aloe liberally during the summer, and less so during the winter.