Aloe Vera is a succulent plant resembling a cactus but is in fact a member of the lily family. Its medical benefits have been recorded as long ago as 2,200 BC. The clear aloe gel that is found in the leaves is used for external applications and the base of the dried leaf has a yellow sap that is known as bitter aloes. This is taken internally for many ailments.
Where did this plant come from? It seems to have had its beginnings in the eastern and southern regions of Africa. Travelers soon came to know of its valuable healing properties and carried it with them. They brought it to many corners of the world. Now you can find it almost everywhere you go. It can be grown outside in warmer climates or even kept as a houseplant. It is very tolerant of droughts but cannot take too much water or cold.
Aloe Vera is used for a wide variety of medical ailments and recent research has even uncovered its benefits when treating HIV. It is commonly used in the cosmetic industry for skin conditions and beauty products.
Many people use it as a topical application for its healing properties. It seals the damaged skin with a protective coat and speeds up healing by...