None known

Plants For A Future can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.
Antiarthritic  Antihaemorrhoidal  Antispasmodic  Bitter  Digestive  Dysentery  Kidney  Laxative  
Purgative  Skin  Vermifuge

Used medicinally in the same ways as Aloe vera[ 46 ]. Aloe vera is used in the following ways:- The clear gel contained within the leaf makes an excellent treatment for wounds, burns and a host of other skin disorders, placing a protective coat over the affected area, speeding up the rate of healing and reducing the risk of infection. The gel is also applied externally to cure haemorrhoids[ 254 , 299 , K ]. These actions are in part due to the presence of aloectin B, which stimulates the immune system[ 254 ]. To obtain this gel, the leaves can be cut in half along their length and the inner pulp rubbed over the affected area of skin[ K ]. This has an immediate soothing effect on all sorts of burns and other skin problems[ K ]. The use of the gel has been approved in the United States for the treatment of leukaemia in cats, of fibrosarcoma in dogs, for wound healing in humans and to prevent dry socket in humans[ 299 ]. The peeled leaves are eaten to relieve sore throat and coughs and as a mild laxative. As a food supplement, the leaf gel is said to facilitate digestion, and to improve blood and lymphatic circulation, as well as kidney, liver and gall bladder functions[ 299 ]. There are claims of beneficial activity of Aloe vera products in cases of AIDS, arthritis, or other chronic and debilitating conditions. However, these claims have not been substantiated by scientific studies. There is also no evidence that topical Aloe vera gel is effective in preventing or minimizing radiation-induced skin reactions in cancer patients. In large amounts, the gel has anti-irritant properties[ 299 ]. A bitter substance is obtained from the yellow sap at the base of the leaf. Known as 'bitter aloes', it contains anthraquinones which are a useful digestive stimulant and a strong laxative[ 254 ]. It also has vermicidal properties[ 299 ]. It is taken internally in the treatment of chronic constipation, poor appetite, digestive problems etc[ 238 ]. Mixed with other ingredients to mask its bitter taste, it is taken against asthma and to treat coughs. Similar mixtures are taken to cure dysentery, kidney problems or against dyspepsia[ 299 ]. It should be administered preferably in combination with an antispasmodic to moderate its griping action[ 299 ]. It is applied externally as a refrigerant to treat acne or cuts[ 299 ]. 'Cura'ao aloe' should contain at least 28% hydroxy-anthraquinone derivatives; it is almost entirely soluble in 60% alcohol and for more than 70% in water. It should not contain more than 12% moisture and 3% ash[ 299 ]. The plant is strongly purgative so great care should be taken over the dosage[ 238 ]. Anthraquinone-based laxatives, such as bitter aloes, should not be used longer than 8 - 10 days, nor by children younger than 12 years. Contra-indications include pregnancy, breastfeeding, intestinal inflammations and haemorrhoids[ 238 , 243 , 299 ]. When plants are grown in pots the anthraquinone content is greatly reduced[ 254 ].

Other uses rating: Low (1/5). Suitable for xeriscaping. Suitable for growing in containers.

Special Uses