Aloe vera, a major component of western medicines is a member of lily family, that is very similar to cactus is its characteristics. Also known as "lily of the desert", it has thick, gel-filled leaves. Very popular in Korea, US and worldwide, its become an herb widely used in cosmetics, drinks, various medications, and much more.

There are over 500 species of Aloe. but of these, aloe vera (vera is Latin for "true") has been used for over 3,500 years and is known to be most effective of all of the aloe species.

In Ayurveda, traditional Indian medicine, aloe vera gel is known to "tonic that bring out women''s feminine beauty and energy". In ancient India, aloe symbolizes the goddess, the fact that ancient Indan women have used aloe in their daily routine for beauty and anti-aging use. Like the ancient Indian women, legendary beauty Cleopatra used aloe vera daily to keep her skin luster, and Josephine, wife of Napoleon, is known to have used milk and aloe to protect her skin. Even today, many women of the world use aloe vera to keep their skin beautiful and soft, and many brand cometic companies use this herb as a major ingredient in their products (ex: Nu Skin Intensive Eye complex).

In addition, aloe vera can be used as a natural deodorant. In some African tribes, aloe vera gel is applied to eliminate body odors before hunting. More importantly, aloe vera is known as the emergency medicinal herb. It prevents spread of infections, removes dead cells while promoting production of healthy cells, alleviates pain, and minimizes scars.

Indications:

1. Treatment of various wounds and burns (sun, steam)

Scientific evidence of aloe vera=s wound healing properties were first documented 1935 in American Medicine Journal. The article mentioned a woman who had successfully treated her X-ray burns with aloe vera gel. In addition, the aloe vera can also be used to treat skin itchiness due to poison ivy, and oak tree.

Since aloe vera is low in cost, can be easily grown indoors, its very useful to have for emergency medicine, and can be used for variety of things.

2. Prevents infections

Along with wound healing property, aloe vera has been proven to prevent infections as well.

3. Protects skin (keeps skin lustrous and shiny)

Its often used as a natural moisturizer, prevention for progress of wrinkles, acne, psoriasis, urticaria, and etc (for skin moisture and protective use, its best to use fresh gel from the leaves. For sensitive skin, if discomfort occurs, discontinue the use, and consult a doctor or an herbalist/acupuncturist immediately).

4. Controls Liver function, and good for PMS (premenstrual syndrome) Take 1 teaspoon (by mouth) once daily for 3-6 months

5. Can be used for vaginal yeast infection, cancers, and diabetes

6. In oriental medicine, aloe is known as Lu Hui, and is used as a purgative herb. Its properties are bitter and cold, and is used for excess-type constipation, clear liver fire and symptoms associated with it, like hypochondriac pain, red eyes, headache, and irritability.

Caution:

1. Aloe vera contains Anthraquinon which acts as a laxative

This substance is also contained in other laxatives, however, in aloe vera, it is extremely potent, which may lead to intestinal spasm, diarrhea, and etc. Hence, most practitioners will not recommend it as a laxative. If using any marketed aloe vera product as a laxative, follow directions carefully, do not use more than recommenced dosage.

2. Not for use by pregnant or nursing mothers

The laxative property of aloe vera may also cause uterine contractions, and may lead to miscarriage. If the infant ingests aloe vera (thru breast milk),it may cause intestinal spasms or diarrhea.

3. May worsen symptoms of digestive ulcer, hemorrhoids, diverticulitis, and colitis, it should be avoided

4. Should be avoided by anyone with coldness in abdomen area, frequent nausea/vomiting, and fatigue

5. Natural aloe vera is generally safe, but as manufactured products, it contains various fragrant and other chemicals. Hence, those with sensitive skin may experience some form of allergic reaction, and should follow manufactures recommendation carefully.