Aloe Vera

The Source

The Aloe Vera plant is similar to a cactus but is actually a member of the lily family. There are over 300 different varieties found around the world. Aloe Barbadensis Miller and Aloe Arborescens Miller are the only two species commercially grown for aloe vera production.

Mature plants can reach a height of 1.5m, and an aloe plant averages around 12-16 leaves weighing as much as 2 kg each. They are harvested every 6-8 weeks by carefully removing three to four leaves per plant.

The History

Aloe Vera has been used for thousands of years as a natural soothing and revitalising emollient and has been referred for centuries as the ‘First Aid Plant’. It can be used either externally, on the skin or hair, or taken internally as a drink which may help to maintain a healthy digestive system.

The plant has been used for its incredible soothing, hydrating and moisturizing properties by many civilizations around the world going right back to the ancient Egyptians. Myths and legends surrounding the use of aloe vera in ancient times suggest that it was an important part of the beauty regime of the Egyptian queens, Nefertiti and Cleopatra. The first documented analysis of the plant’s properties can be found in the works of Pedanius Dioscorides (40 AD- 90 AD) the ancient Greek physician, pharmacologist and botanist who practiced in ancient Rome during the reign of Nero. His five volume masterpiece De Materia Medica is considered the foundation of all modern pharmacopoeias and is one of the most important books on the history of herbal science.

The International Aloe Science Council operates a voluntary approval scheme that gives an official seal (IASC – certified) on products containing certified raw ingredients processed according to standard guidelines.

The Science

• Aloe Vera contains over 75 different components including enzymes, polysaccharides, fatty acids (phytosterols), amino acids, flavonoids, saponins, salicylic acid, lectin and phenolic compounds such as anthracene
• To preserve the natural qualities of the Aloe Vera plant, producers have to harvest and process leaves under strict manufacturing practices.
• Aloe Vera is generally well tolerated with occasional allergic reactions reported.