There are around 500 different types of aloe plants, but only real aloe vera, also called aloe barbadensis, is a medicinal plant. If you want to benefit from the healing effects of aloe, you should buy the right plant.
The small teeth distinguish aloe vera from other types of aloe
An important criterion for differentiation is the bitter taste of real aloe vera. But of course you should not cut off a leaf of the plant and try it if you want to buy an aloe vera. So you need to focus on the outward appearance. In addition, the taste depends on the watering behavior and is often milder in cultivated forms than in a wild plant.
This is what real aloe vera looks like
The real aloe vera has only a short stem or is even stemless. The lanceolate smooth leaves are about 40 - 50 cm long and about 6 - 7 cm wide. They are grey-green, sometimes with a reddish touch, and grow in dense rosettes.
The approximately 2 mm long teeth on the leaf edges are characteristic. The yellow or orange flowers sit on up to 60 cm long inflorescences. The aloe vera multiplies all by itself through runners. Its healing effect only develops at the age of about four years.
The healing properties of aloe vera
The anti-inflammatory and disinfecting effect of aloe vera is particularly outstanding. That is why the gel (the juice) from the leaves of this plant is often used for a wide variety of skin problems. It also has a wound-healing, moisturizing and soothing effect.
Aloe gel is a component of many skin care products and even helps to heal burns. Other areas of application are neurodermatitis, psoriasis or herpes, but also bruises, acne or abrasions. Taken internally, aloe gel relieves constipation, but in higher doses it can also cause diarrhea and is slightly toxic.
The possible uses of aloe vera:
- burns
- sunburn
- abrasions
- acne
- bruises
- neurodermatitis
- psoriasis
- herpes
- constipation
tips
For internal use, you should use ready-made preparations such as drops or tablets, since overdose can lead to poisoning.