Aloe Vera is a water retaining plant that is commonly found on barren and arid land areas. It is widely spread in the continent of Africa but it can also be naturally found in huge numbers in India, the Canary Islands, and other countries with very dry climatic conditions. Due to these characteristics and the fact that is has little thorn like ridges on its leaves, it is usually thought that Aloe Vera is a kind of cactus. On the contrary though, it is in fact a part of the Lily family of plants where tulips and onions are also a part of.
It is believed by many that the Aloe Vera plant has various medicinal attributes that range from treatment of topical wounds such as burns and scratches, to more complex ailments such as diabetes.
Aloe Vera contains vitamins such as Vitamin E and Vitamin C which make it very effective as an anti-bacterial agent when applied to wounds. It also has anti-inflammatory compounds and soothing properties that are very useful in treating skin ailments such as minor burns, bites from insects and bugs, sun burn, and different rashes. Aloe Vera also helps in retaining the moisture of the skin to make it faster for the skin to recover from these problems and to help it to heal properly.
Aside from its healing properties, Aloe Vera is also very useful for beauty and physical refinement purposes. It is a very potent agent in taking care of skin blemishes such as acne. It is also a practical aid in keeping the skin feeling young and looking a lot less dehydrated. This is because Aloe Vera stimulates the skin and hastens its production of collagen. It also helps in regenerating new skin cells.
Stories and testimonials abound about the many healing properties of the medicinal aloe Vera plant. As far back as 2000 BC, the Greek and Roman cultures have already been known to have used it as a remedy for the wounds they had incurred in battle. The Egyptians on the other hand, are said to have used Aloe Vera in their mummification processes. There are even accounts that the Egyptians used Aloe Vera for the treatment of tuberculosis.
Growing and taking care of Aloe Vera is fairly easy and requires very little effort but it is however, a very worthwhile undertaking. With its ability to retain water, it can easily thrive even when given only a minimal amount of care. It is actually known to thrive even when neglected for a long period of time. Thus, even the most lackadaisical and inexperienced gardener will have a very good chance of growing this plant successfully.
Using the Aloe Vera plant as a herbal treatment is just as easy as it is to grow it. It is as easy as breaking off one of its leaves and the gel will immediately flow out. This is the gel that is applied directly on the wounds. It is important to remember though that it is most effective when it is used fresh, which is why it is best to have a live plant at home.
Just like all other medications though, there is the possibility of getting an allergic reaction from the use of Aloe Vera. It is recommended that proper testing for allergic reactions be undertaken before using this or any other home medical treatment.
