The History of Aloe Vera

Although there are more than 400 species of the Aloe plant growing on the Earth, it is Aloe Vera or “true Aloe,” also known scientifically as Aloe Barbadensis Miller, that is used for its healing and medicinal properties .

Aloe Vera has been used for centuries and early records have shown that the Egyptians were the first to recognize its unique ability to heal. It is believed that the therapeutic benefits date back over 4000 years. The very earliest record of Aloe Vera was found on a Sumerian tablet that dates back to 2100 BC.

Culture Rich Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has been used by many cultures throughout the history of the world. Greek and Roman doctors used it to help heal the ailments of their patients. Researchers have discovered that the ancient Chinese and Indian cultures benefitted from the use of Aloe Vera as well.

The Egyptians, and in particular the Egyptian queens such as Cleopatra and Nefertiti used Aloe Vera as a skincare and beauty product. They believed it gave their skin a radiant glow and helped to keep them looking young.

In the Philippines, Aloe Vera was mixed with milk and used to treat a variety of kidney infections. Aloe Vera is referred to as “Aloes” in the Bible and there are many biblical references to the healing quality of the plant.

Alexander the Great is documented in history as having used Aloe Vera to treat his wounded soldiers. This was reputed to have taken place when he conquered the Island of Socotra in the Indian Ocean. Alexander the Great “secured supplies of Aloes” in order to help his men after the battle.

Tropical Growing Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera grew in tropical climates such as in southern Africa and the Mediterranean. In these areas, it became known as a miracle cure because of its “remarkable healing powers.” However due to the more temperate climate of Europe, many physicians there scoffed at the claims about the healing and therapeutic power of Aloe Vera. In Europe, Aloe Vera was considered to be a folk remedy that was more of a myth than a scientific fact.

Aloe Vera continued to be very popular in the tropical areas of the planet. After World War II came to an end, other parts of the world began to develop a renewed interest in the plant’s unique ability to help a number of different medical conditions.

The problem that existed was that there was a need to find ways to prevent the Aloe Vera gel from deteriorating, as this could happen easily due to excessive heat. It took many years for this problem to be solved.

Aloin is a part of the Aloe Vera plant that has very strong laxative qualities. It is the laxative effect of the Aloe Vera plant that propelled it full force into the world of Western medicine. From there it was researched further and was found to have many therapeutic benefits.

Today Aloe Vera is used throughout the world for many health conditions. It is good for the skin, as well as the digestive system, and it can help those suffering from conditions such as asthma and eczema. Aloe Vera is also helpful for the immune system in that it gives it an extra jolt to keep it functioning at a high level.