Originally native to Africa, the plant is now cultivated primarily in Central America, mainly for the cosmetics industry and drinking products. The juice, thickened until dry, is used as a light laxative. The skin care gels are obtained by extracting the leaves with hot water.
INGREDIENTS
Aloe Barbadensis consists of approx. 98% water and very effective but different aloins – mainly A and B – as well as their glycosides.
EFFECT
The aloins accelerate intestinal transit and increase the electrolyte and water volume in the intestine. They are used to stimulate intestinal activity, as a laxative and for gastrointestinal cleansing.
Aloe gels use the mucous components and mannoses (polysaccharides) for their anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on the skin. That's why they are often used for sunburns, burns, relief from insect bites, skin redness and skin irritation – especially after shaving. In cosmetics they are used to care for dry and sensitive skin as a moisturizer in creams and body lotions.
RISKS & SIDE EFFECTS
Like all laxatives, it is not suitable for long-term use and should not be used in cases of chronic inflammatory bowel disease, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, or in children under 12 years of age.
SOURCES
- Hiller K., Melzig M. F.: Lexicon of medicinal plants and drugs. 2. Edition, 2009
- Wichtl M.: Tea drugs and phytopharmaceuticals. 5. Edition, Stuttgart 2009