Aloe Vera

Properties and Benefits

Cholagogue:
Increases the flow of bile from the gall-bladder.

Laxative:
Promotes the evacuation of the bowels. Relieves constipation.

Skin:
Use topically to prevent wrinkles and maintain healthy skin.

Vulnerary:
These are applied externally to the skin to heal and repair wounds and cuts.

Yin Tonic:
Nourishes and builds the yin energy.



Cautions:

• Avoid long term use.
• Long term use leads to losses of electrolytes, in particular potassium.
• Do not use while pregnant or nursing.
• Stimulates uterine contractions, do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding as it may have purgative effects for the baby.

Symptoms Relieved

Abrasions:
A scrape or cut to the skin.

Constipation:
Delayed or infrequent passage of usually dry hardened feces.

Skin irritations:
Skin & mucus membrane irritations

Sunburn:
Inflammation of the skin caused by overexposure to ultraviolet radiation especially sunlight.


Parts of the Plant Used

Juice:
The dried and fresh juice of the leaves and the gel from the leaves.



Methods and Usage

Eaten / Juiced:
The leaves or fruit may be eaten. The effect of the herb is very mild when taken this way. Think of it as a way to gently support the body rather than the heal an acute ailment.
Aloe gel or liquid can be taken internally.

Externally:
Ointments, bath additives.
Aloe gel can be used for sunburn, burns, healing skin, wrinkles.


Types of Energies

Neutral:
May be slightly warm or cool. Can be used to treat both hot or cold symptoms.

Sweet:
Nourishes and builds the whole body. Yang, warm.