Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe Vera ( ALOE BARBADENSUS) Habitat: Indigenous to East and South Africa, Mediterranean countries and tropical or subtropical countries including the West Indies, Mexico and Southern United States. Gel cultivated in Texas and Florida. Appearance: Succulent plants with numerous fleshy leaves which protrude from the upper part of the root; narrow, tapering and usually beset at the edges with spiny teeth. Flowers are erect spikes. Clear gel is characterized by hair-like connective veins. Odor:Odorless to slightly vegetable odor Aloe gel has been used for centuries in skin care. Aloe gel has produced startling results in replenishing lost moisture from the skin. When applied to skin injuries, minor wounds, chemical or radiation burns, poison ivy, rash, etc., aloe Vera works very quickly with dramatic results. The application of aloe vera on burns produces soothing relief immediately.

There are 200 species of aloe plants, but the one called aloe vera, meaning "true aloe" in Latin, is the most common and is sought for its medicinal properties. Aloe is best known for its cooling and soothing properties. The whole aloe leaf can be dried and used, or the gel can be extracted from it and used topically or orally.