 USES
Aloe Vera is one of over 200 species of Aloe, a succulent member of the Lily family. Commonly know as a medicinal plant, Aloe Vera has been used since ancient times as a remedy and beauty aid. By splitting open a leaf, peeling back the skin and rubbing the gel on a burn, open wound, or skin irritation, many people have found comforting relief from these and many other ailments.
Rashes, poison ivy, insect stings, psoriases, acne and even some internal ailments are said to have been cured using the pulpy gel of this "miracle" plant.
HOW IT WORKS
The chemical makeup of Aloe Vera is said to produce such things as antibiotics, astringents, a pain inhibitor and a stimulator which activates cell growth, speeding the healing process. Burns and wounds are even said to result in less scarring when treated with the Aloe Vera. Medical researchers are looking for ways to use the plant’s properties in treating internal problems as well, such as digestive tract cancer and ulcers.
THE ALOE VERA STORY
Aloe Vera is also known by many grateful laymen as the "Medicine Plant", "Burn Plant", "First Aid Plant" or "Miracle Plant". Aloe resembles cactus in appearance, but is actually a perennial succulent belonging to the Lily family (Liliaceae).
The Aloe Vera could emerge as one of the loveliest and most beneficial plants ever discovered. It has traversed both time and continents and has been used extensively in many cultures because of the effective way it treats burns, heals wounds, and relieves aches and pains. Legends of long life and good health have accompanied Aloe throughout the world pains. Legends of long life and good health have accompanied Aloe throughout the world.
Aloe Vera has been rediscovered in recent years and owes its reemergence to its increased use in cosmetic, sunburn and sunscreen products. Much, scientific research has been done on Aloe Vera in recent years and the inescapable conclusion is that Aloe works, although this comes as no surprise to those of us who have been using it for years. |
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DIRECTIONS FOR PLANT CARE
Light
Place in a room where there is bright light. Will tolerate full sun
Feeding
In spring and summer fertilize monthly. Do not fertilize in the fall and winter
Water
In spring and summer allow soil to dry between waterings. In fall and winter water sparingly, Keep your Aloe dry. Likes good drainage.
Temperature
Ideal temperature – 65 – 77°F (19 – 25°C)
A BEAUTIFUL ORNAMENTAL
Besides all the medicinal properties, Aloe Vera simply makes an attractive ornamental for your home or garden. The clusters of stiff, narrow leaves grow one to two feet long. Beautiful yellow, but rare, blooms form at the top of a tall stalk from the centre of the plant. Most plants do not bloom until the plant reaches maturity at 3 years of age.
LIGHT AND LOCATION
Aloe Vera should be located in a West or South facing window providing bright light or full sun.
COMMON USES
Sunburn Relief – Aloe Vera is an excellent first aid treatment for sunburns. For treatment of mild to fair sunburn, cover frequently with Aloe Vera juice from a spray bottle or cotton pad. Relieves pain and prevents blistering.
Burns and Scalds – As above.
Hair and Scap Care – Aloe Vera juice can be used as a hair set or conditioner that improves hair sheen and manageability and helps scalp abrasions.
Scrapes and Abrasion – Treat the wound by spraying with Aloe Vera juice or tenderly applying split leaf.
Stings by Insects – When bitten by an insect, split a leaf immediately and lay over the area.
Digestive Problems – Many claim that Aloe Vera helps their digestive organs perk up and do the job they were designed to do. Taking one or two tablespoons, several times daily seems to act as a general tonic and mild regulator of the bowels.
Sore Throat – Because Aloe Vera is not a medicine it is one gargle that can be swallowed. Taking little sips, while gargling, allows deeper penetration of the throat.
Poison Ivy – Spray the affected area with Aloe Vera juice. Repeat frequently. Relieves the itching and spreading of poison ivy.
NOTE: All of the above uses and treatments using Aloe Vera are reputed to work, but are not guaranteed. These suggestions constitute no guarantee of any sort.
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