
Aloe vera is a succulent plant with thick, fleshy green leaves that contain a clear mucilaginous gel. It thrives in dry climates and is widely cultivated for cosmetic, medicinal, and nutritional purposes. Its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties make it popular in both traditional medicine and modern pharmaceuticals.
Aloe vera Scientific names
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Phylum: Angiosperms
- Class: Monocots
- Order: Asparagales
- Family: Asphodelaceae
- Genus: Aloe
- Species: Aloe barbadensis miller
Aloe vera Common Names
- English: Aloe Vera, Burn Plant, Miracle Plant
- Hindi: Gwarpatha
- Sanskrit: Kumari
- Gujarati: Kunvar Pathu
- Tamil: Katrazhai
- Malayalam: Kattaarvazha
- Telugu: Kalabanda
Aloe vera Uses
- Skin Care and Wound Healing - Used traditionally for burns, cuts, and wounds due to its cooling and soothing effects, Accelerates healing of minor skin injuries and reduces inflammation.
- Digestive Health - Aloe vera juice supports gut health, reduces acidity, and relieves constipation, Acts as a natural detoxifier.
- Anti-Inflammatory & Antioxidant - Contains compounds that help reduce internal and external inflammation, Antioxidants support cellular health and immune system function.
- Scalp and Hair Care - Nourishes the scalp, reduces dandruff, and promotes hair growth.
- Immunity Booster - Boosts natural immunity by supporting liver function and improving digestion.
- Diabetes Management - May help in regulating blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes patients.
Phytochemical Constituents
Aloe vera gel and latex contain numerous active compounds:
- Polysaccharides: Acemannan (immunomodulatory and healing properties)
- Anthraquinones: Aloin, Emodin (laxative and antimicrobial effects)
- Saponins: Cleansing and antiseptic action
- Enzymes: Alkaline phosphatase, Amylase, Lipase
- Vitamins: A, C, E, B1, B2, B6, B12
- Minerals: Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Selenium
- Amino Acids: Essential and non-essential amino acids
References
Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Ministry of AYUSH, Govt. of India.
Bhavprakash Nighantu, Chapter on Herbal Remedies.
Eshun, K., & He, Q. (2004). "Aloe vera: A valuable ingredient for the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries – A review." Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 44(2), 91–96.
Boudreau, M. D., & Beland, F. A. (2006). "An evaluation of the biological and toxicological properties of Aloe barbadensis (Miller), Aloe vera." Journal of Environmental Science and Health Part C, 24(1), 103–154.
Surjushe, A., Vasani, R., & Saple, D. G. (2008). "Aloe vera: A short review." Indian Journal of Dermatology, 53(4), 163–166.
European Medicines Agency. Community herbal monograph on Aloe barbadensis Miller and Aloe (various species), EMA/HMPC/535138/2009.