Organic Food and Health Articles

   Aloe Vera is a spiky cactus-like plant of the lily family and is native to tropical areas. Although there are over 200 species of aloe there are probably only three or four with medicinal properties. Of these, Aloe Vera Barbadensis is the most potent.

The Aloe Vera leaf contains many ingredients, including vitamins, minerals; seven of the eight essential amino acids, sugars – including the important muco-poly saccharides which act on the immune system as well as helping to detoxify the body – and essential fatty acids. Aloe Vera also contains Lignin which gives gives Aloe Vera its penetrative ability to reach deep into the skin; saponins which exert a powerful anti microbial effect against bacteria, viruses, fungi and yeasts such as candida and anthraquinones, including aloin and emodin, which are strong painkillers and antibacterial, they are also powerful laxatives.

The nutritional qualities and antioxidant properties of Aloe Vera, together with its natural anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial action, make it an amazing medicinal herb.

Aloe Vera is often called the natural healer or the burn plant. I reach for it immediately anyone burns themselves in the kitchen. A tiny piece of the leaf split in half reveals the inner gel which, when rubbed on a minor burn, gives immediate relief. Its healing powers on the skin are indisputable. I have used it successfully to reduce stretch marks and ease acne, eczema and nappy rash. It helps protect against sunburn. A segment of the fresh leaf rubbed on the skin is a centuries old sun-screen used by desert Arabs against sunburn. It is extremely soothing if you are sunburnt. Taken internally it is good for indigestion, inflamed bowel and ulcers.

Aloe Vera is an excellent herbal remedy to grow on the kitchen windowsill.

Penrhos

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