Satish Lele satish.lele@gmail.com

The word ‘aloe’ has its roots in the Arabic word ‘alloeh’, which means ‘radiance’. A native plant of Somalia with a history dating back to the fourth century B.C, Aloe Vera also figures prominently in Egyptian, Chinese, Greek, Indian and Christian literature. As per legend, it was the miraculous healing power of Aloe Vera that prompted Alexander the Great to conquer the island of Socotra. Cleopatra’s famed beauty is also attributed to the natural goodness of Aloe Vera. While the Arabs have a tradition of placing it at graves as a symbol of regeneration and resurrection, the African hunters used its gel as a deodorant. With the recent resurgence of herbal products as a part of ‘green movement’, Aloe Vera is witnessing a new renaissance across the world.

Aloe Vera is a succulent that belongs to the liliaceae family. It is one of the 250 known species of aloes, referred to by the scientific terms of Aloe Vera and Aloe arbadensis. Called Ghrita Kumari in Sanskrut, it is commonly known as Aloe, Aloe Vera, Barbados Aloe, Sabila and Pita Sabila. Akin to cactus in appearance, it grows naturally in Africa, America, Europe and Asia. The ideal environment for cultivating Aloe Vera is a tropical climate and low rainfall. The mature plant will grow up to a height of twenty-five feet. It has fibrous roots and bright green gelatinous leaves, enveloped in a fine layer of a yellow liquid or sap. Aloe Vera produces flowers and seeds from the same root structure year after year. The yellow to purplish drooping flowers grow in a long raceme at the top of the flower stalk. The fruit is a triangular capsule containing numerous seeds.

The various constituent elements found in Aloe Vera include :
Vitamins : Beta-carotene, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Folic acid, Vitamin C, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B6,Vitamin E, Choline.
Minerals : Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Copper, Iron, Manganese, Potassium, Zinc, Chromium, Chlorine.
Amino Acids : Lysine, Threonine, Valine, Methionine, Leucine, Isoleucine, Phenylaianine, Tryptophane, Histidine, Arginine, Hydroxy Proline, Aspartic acid, Serine, Glutamic acid, Proline, Glycerine, Alanine, Cystine and Tyrosine.
Anthraquinones : Aloin, Isobarbaloin, Barbaloin, Cinnamic acid,Emodin, Aloe Emodin, Ester of Cinnamic acid, Anthracene, Antranol, Aloetic acid, Ethereal oils, Resistannols and Crysophanic acid.
Mono and polysaccharides : Cellulose, Glucose, Mannose, Galactose, Aldonentose, L-rhamnose, Uronic acid, Xylose, Glucuronic acid and Arabinose.
Enzymes : Oxidase, Amylase, Catalase, Lipase and Alinase.

Applications / Uses : The important therapeutic uses of Aloe Vera include

• The long chain mannan polysaccharides in it helps activate and boost the Immune System.

• The magnesium lactate and salicylates in it effectively avert Allergies, Sinusitis and Bronchitis.

• The molecules in it act as anti-inflammatory agent, a cure for arthritis, and promote good circulation for the heart and nervous system.

• The polysaccharides in it bring down the bodies serum lipids, and thus lower triglyceride and LDL level (bad cholesterol) and increase of HDL (good cholesterol).

• As an antioxidant, it guards against damage by free radicals and unwarranted toxins in the body. It also regulates blood pressure, and acts in rheumatism, arthritis, and infections of the kidney, the urinary tract and the prostate.

• By the combined and synergic effect of the various ingredients in it, it aids in treatment of peptic ulcers, stomach disorders, acidity, indigestion, gastritis and ulcers, colitis and haemorrhoids, cirrhosis, hepatitis and diabetes.

The list of different illnesses and conditions, aided by the use of Aloe Vera is indeed impressive, covering everything from burns and slight infections to very serious conditions.

1. Acne, aching joints & muscles, asthama, athletes foot, abscesses, arthritis, allergy rashes, age spots, acid indigestion.

2. Brown skin spots, burns, boils, blood pressure, bruising, bad breath, bleeding, bowel problems / conditions, blisters, bronchitis.

3. Cancer treatment (i.e. helps case the radiation effects), cuts & wounds, colon cleansing, constipation, calcium, chapping, cataracts, craddle cap, cystitis, candida, circulation, colitis, colic.

4. Digestive problems, diarrhoea, dermatitis, dandruff, diabetes, detoxification, duodenal ulcer, diaper (nappy) rash, denture sores, depression.

5. Eye and ear problems (inflammation, infection), eczema, energy loss.

7. Gum disease, bleeding gums.
8. Hair and scalp, heat rash haemorrhoids, headache.

9. Infection, inflammation, itching, irritable bowel syndrome, indigestion, insomnia, influenza, inset bite.

10. Jaundice
11. Kidney ailments
12. Liver ailments, laryngitis.
13. Moisturizes, mouth ulcers, muscle cramps.
14. Nasal congestion, nutrition, cracked nipples, nausea.
15. Operation recovery.
16. Psoriasis, prickly heat, pimple, peptic ulcer, pain relief.
18. Radiation burns, razor burn, rheumatism, rashes.

19. Sear removal, scalp problems, sinusitis, sore throat, scalding, stomach dusorders, sciatica, strains, sprains, skin problems, stress shingles, stings, styles, sunburns.

20. Tonsillitis, thrush, teething, tennis elbow.
21. Ulcers (all kinds)
22. Varicose veins, veterinary treatments, venereal sores.
23. Warts, wind chapping.

The Demand

A conservative estimate puts the monetary value of current Global trade in medicinal plants at over US$ 60 billion. With the increasing interest in ‘natural’ products across the world and the resultant upsurge in the demand for medicinal plants, this trade is expected to grow up to US$ 5 trillion by the year 2050. Aloe Vera is among the few medicinal plants by virtue of their extensive medicinal, nutraceutical and other uses enjoy a major chunk of the market across the globe. The major markets for Aloe Vera and its extracts are Australia, US and the entire Europe. Despite the ideal climatic conditions for the cultivation of Aloe Vera, we have not been able to exploit the excellent potential of the miraculous medicinal plant. The reasons are simple : lack of cultivation and processing know-how.
Given the exponentially growing demand for it in the international market, Aloe Vera presents the finest commercial opportunity among the various medicinal plants. Also, India is among the few countries gifted with the unique geographical features essential for cultivation of Aloe Vera and other high potential medicinal plants. Yet, the country has not realized and reaped the full potential of such plants. The reason is simple: lack of the requisite expertise. Fortunately, the technology is now accessible to individual and corporate entrepreneurs to make the most of Aloe through mainstream cultivation.

Cultivation Process

Though Aloe Vera can be cultivated on any soil for 'dry land management', sandy loamy soil is the best suited for it. Aloe Vera is generally propagated by root suckers by carefully digging out without damaging the parent plant and planting it in the main field. It can also be propagated through rhizome cuttings, By digging out the rhizomes after the harvest of the crop and making them into 5-6 cm length cuttings with a minimum of 2-3 nodes on them. Then they are rooted in specially prepared sand beds or containers. The plant is ready for transplanting after the appearance of the first sprouts. The process of cultivating Aloe Vera involves the following process:

• The ground is to be carefully prepared to keep free from weeds and the soil is ideally kept ideally slightly acidic. The soil should be supplied supplement in the form of ammonium nitrate every year.

• The plants are set spaced out by 31 inches in  rows and between the rows. At that rate, about 5,000  plants are set per acre. An 8 - 12 inch aloe pop would  take about 18 - 24 months to fully mature.

• The plants, in a year's time, would bear flowers that are bright yellow in colour. The leaves are 1 to 2 feet long and are cut without causing damage to the plant, so that it lasts for several years.

• The crop can be harvested 4 times a year. At the rate of 3 leaves cut from each plant, about 12 leaves are the harvest per plant per year. On an average, the yield per acre annually can vary from 15,000 to 60,000 kg. (Commercial avarage is 30,000 to 35,000 Kgs per acre, per year, depending on supply of water)

• The leaves cut off close to the plant are placed immediately, with the cut end downwards, in a V-shaped wooden trough of about 4 feet long and 12 to 18 inches deep.

• The wooden trough is set on a sharp incline so that the juice, which trickles from the leaves very rapidly, flows down its sides, and finally escapes by a hole at its lower end into a vessel placed beneath.

• It takes about a quarter of an hour to cut leaves enough to fill a trough. The troughs are so distributed as to be easily accessible to the cutters.

• The leaves are neither infused nor boiled, nor is any use afterwards made of them except for manure. When the vessels receiving the juice become filled, the latter is removed to a cask or reserved for evaporation. This may be done at once, or it may be delayed for weeks or even months.

• The evaporation is generally conducted in a copper vessel; at the bottom of this is a large ladle, into which the impurities sink, and are from time to time removed as the boiling goes on.

• As soon as the inspissation has reached the proper point, which is determined solely by the experienced eye of the workman, the thickened juice is poured into large gourds or into boxes, and allowed to harden.

Aloe Vera Gel
Reputed as one of herbs in the beauty arsenals of Cleopatra and Nephertiti, aloe vera gel today is showing up as a main ingredient in cosmetics and in bottles on the shelves of health food to grocery stores. From it's history painted on ancient walls to the controversies of today, this is one herb used freely for skin almost as much as water. Aloe vera gel can be used both internally and externally. It is obtained from the plants pulp containing approximately 200 biologically active substances which can be broken down into the following groups:

• Vitamins - Antioxidants, D and B12
• Minerals - Trace
• Enzymes - Several different types
• Sugars - Immune system and detoxification

• Anthraquinones - Gastrointestinal absorption, pain relief, anti bacterial, anti viral.

• Lignin - Helps other constituents penetrate skin.
• Saponins - Soapy substance, cleansing, anti bacterial / microbial.
• Salicylic Acids - Asprin like, anti inflammatory.
• Fatty Acids - Anti inflammatory

The gel consists of 99.3% water and the remaining 0.7% is a synergistic mix of the above constituents. Some believe it is the synergistic effect of the constituents is what makes the gel so effective. The gel does degrade quickly so it is important to use gel either from a fresh plant or one that has been preserved without degrading processing.
Externally use this as a base for aromatherapy facial products, especially during troubled and oily periods. After washing and toning the face, lightly massage in cold (kept in the refrigerator) aloe vera gel for a few moments, then blot of the excess. The cold also helps tighten pores. Use it as a light moisturizer base by adding selected essential oils. Keep small amounts at room temperature as aloe is not an oil and the essential oils don't easily mix. Shake it up prior to using. Use it as an after sun treatment with selected essential oils added. For a little more emollient action add a few drops of jojoba or rose hip oil.
Internally it is taken to heal and help the function of the gastrointestinal tract and duodenal ulcera. External uses include wounds, burns, softening, UV protection, regeneration and moisturizing. You can drink it with water or juice. Do not care for the taste, about the only way to have it taste good is when mixed with spicy tomato or other juices.

Aloe Vera Gel Profile

• Botanical Name- Barbadensis miller
• Extraction- Ground fillet of inner leaf / cold pressed
• Shelf life- 12-14 months

Because of the delicate nature of Aloe Vera gel, refrigeration is recommended to prolong shelf life. A good gel is created by hand removing the inner fillet of whole Aloe Vera leaves, and then subsequently sending into a cold pressed production facility. It is a naturally ground product and may contain small pieces of pulp within the gel. Suitable for food, cosmetic and beverage use. Also add natural preservatives like Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, and Citric Acid.

Specifications Color- Pale / Translucent Odor- Mild / Characteristic Pesticide residues - should test Negative pH - 3.9

Microbial Aerobic Plate Count - <10 CFU/G Mold - <10 CFU/G Yeast Mold - <10 CFU/G Pathogens - Absent

Preservatives Sodium Benzoate - 0.10% Potassium Sorbate - 0.10% Citric Acid - 0.12%

Aloe in Aruba : Between 1840 and 1850 the Aloe Vera plant has been brought to Aruba and is since then cultivated in Aruba on a large scale. Aruba had the ideal climate for the Aloe plant and very soon thousands of acres of Aloe were grown and many Aruban families lived from the harvest of the Aloe Vera, in those days only for the export of the raw material for laxatives.
In the literature on Aloe the quality of the Aruba Aloes were undisputedly superior to other Aloes and this was also the reason that at the beginning of our century Aruba became the largest exporter of Aloe vera products in the world and soon earned the name "Island of Aloe".
In the code of arms of Aruba an Aloe plant is shown and the official name for the laxative raw material is "Curacao Aloes", named after the harbour from where the Aruba Aloes were shipped all over the world (Curacao itself had virtually no Aloe production).
At the end of the fifties, new, synthetic laxatives replaced the Aloes worldwide and other industries (oil refining and tourism) replaced the Aloe industry in Aruba. The Aloe fields, however, remained, and still Aruba was the "Island of Aloe" and the Aloe plant stayed in the code of arms of Aruba. Aruba had set the record to be able to be the largest supplier in the world, of the best Aloe in the world.
When the parenchyma (the mucilaginous material in the leaves) of the leaves is removed, this so called "gel-filet" is grinned and the fibers are removed. An opalescent liquid remains that is commonly called "Aloe Vera Gel" and after preservation this is the liquid that is used in skin preparations and health drinks.

Aloe Vera Gel consists for 99.3% of water. The remaining 0.7% are the solids that consist for a large part of polysaccharides of the glucose and mannose type. Together with the enzymes and amino-acids in the gel they give the gel the special properties as a skin care product.
The gel stimulates cell growth and as such enhances the restoration of damaged skin. It moisturizes the skin because it has a water holding capacity. This moist on the skin also has a cooling effect. As a drink it protects the mucous membrane of the stomach especially when irritated or damaged.

The Chemistry of Aloe Vera
Everybody has at least heard of Aloe Vera, the plant that supplies a skin care ingredient that has very good moisturizing, softening and cooling properties. With sunburns and minor kitchen burns it will bring relief and speeds up the recuperation of the skin.
Especially in Aruba where this plant is now known to, and used by the local population for more than 130 years it has become a part of the culture and even an Aloe plant appears in the coat of arms of Aruba. The ingredient that is used for cosmetics is a gel that can be obtained from the thick leaves of the plant.
Inside the leaves (the parenchyma) is a transparent structure that contains this Gel and this is the material that is used widely in cosmetic preparations as a powerful moisturizer.
Besides water (99%) the main other ingredients are a combination of so called polysaccharides. Many natural sugar-like molecules that together form very long and large molecules. It is these molecules that give Aloe Vera Gel its gelatinous aspect.
These molecules can hold water molecules together and that is one of the reasons that Aloe Vera is such a good moisturizer. Also these molecules are very nutritious, for instance, for microorganisms. Together with the water holding properties of the polysaccharides this forms an ideal environment for bacterial contamination. This is the reason that freshly prepared Aloe Vera Gel can spoil within a few hours at room temperature. While in the intact leaf of the plant it will remain sterile. Aloe Vera producers always have a hard time preserving the Aloe Vera Gel without losing its properties.
Apart from the polysaccharides the Aloe Vera Gel contains enzymes and minerals and some vitamins. The activity of the enzymes is often used as a measure of the effectiveness of the Gel. Not always is this an accurate way of measuring because not only the enzymes account for the activity of the Gel as a skin care product. Apart from skin care the Aloe Vera Gel is also used in health drinks.
The gelatinous structure of the gel can form a good protection for the wall of the stomach against stomach acid especially when the stomach wall is irritated or damaged. Many people in Aruba know well how to make a fresh drink from the Aloe Vera gel.
When the Aloe Vera is harvested from Aloe fields that are irrigated artificially the gel contains more water and less solids and as such is less effective. The plant that grows in a dry climate produces a more concentrated and more effective Aloe Vera Gel like in Aruba.
The semi-tropical plant, Aloe Vera, has a long and illustrious history dating from biblical times. It has been mentioned throughout recorded history and given a high ranking as an all-purpose herbal plant.
Aloe's thick, tapered, spiny leaves grow from a short stalk near ground level. It is not a cactus, but a member of the tree lily family, known as Aloe barbadensis. Aloe is related to other members of the Lily family such as the onion, garlic and turnip families. Aloe's relationship to the lily family is evident from the tubular yellow flowers produced annually in the spring that resemble those of the Easter lily.
There are over 250 species of aloe grown around the world. However, only two species are grown today commercially, with Aloe barbadensis Miller and Aloe aborescens being the most popular. The Aloe plant is grown in warm tropical areas and cannot survive freezing temperatures.
In the United States, most of the Aloe is grown in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas, Florida and Southern California. Internationally, Aloe can be found in Mexico, the Pacific Rim countries, India, South America, Central America, the Caribbean, Australia and Africa.
The leaves of the Aloe plant grow from the base in the rosette pattern. Mature plants can grow as tall as 2 and a half inches to 4 feet with the average being around 28 to 36 inches in length. Each plant usually has 12-16 leaves that, when mature, may weigh up to three pounds. The plants can be harvested every 6 to 8 weeks by removing 3 to 4 leaves per plant.
The original commercial use of the Aloe plant was in the production of a latex substance called Aloin, a yellow sap used for many years as a laxative ingredient. This product became synonymous with the name "Aloe" and recorded in the trade, technical and government literature during the early 20th century. This terminology created much confusion later when Aloe's other main ingredient, Aloe Gel, a clear colorless semi-solid gel, was stabilized and marketed. This Aloe Vera Gel, beginning in the 50's, has gained respect as a commodity used as a base for nutritional drinks, as a moisturizer, and a healing agent in cosmetics and OTC drugs. Chemical analysis has revealed that this clear gel contains amino acids, minerals, vitamins, enzymes, proteins, polysaccharides and biological stimulators. Public interest in Aloe has grown quickly, and now there is a considerable amount of research into the various components of Aloe to find out more about their properties and to characterize these components so that more specific research can provide clues to the "magic" that is attributed to Aloe Vera.
This "magic" concept brought the industry under the Federal Food and Drug Administration's microscope in the late 70's and early 80's. The claims made to the consumer about uses and effectiveness of Aloe were exaggerated.
Aloe Vera Gel, like most natural juices, both fruit and vegetable, is an unstable product when extracted and is subject to discoloration and spoilage from contamination by microorganisms. The great success of Aloe as a commodity for use in nutritional foods and cosmetics is due to the proper stabilizing procedures that enable processors to store and ship the Aloe Gel without fear of spoilage throughout the market places of the world. Research conducted around the world leaves little doubt that certain biochemical properties of Aloe will be proven facts. Such attributes as moisturizing and penetrating properties are known, but the attributes such as its healing abilities and analgesic action to bacterial activity has not been clearly defined and documented through properly controlled scientific research and testing.
Today, the Aloe industry has established high ethical standards for businesses and their Aloe products. Through the International Aloe Science Council, the industry has solidified its dedication to providing the world with the highest quality Aloe. The wide acceptance of Aloe by society in so many consumer products suggests that the IASC is moving in the proper direction. The image of Aloe has never been higher. The IASC has a dedicated group of professionals committed to the further growth, research and marketing of quality Aloe Vera Gel and Aloe products made from this Gel. This is because the IASC knows the future of Aloe is full of promise for those willing to make the necessary effort.
What Is It? : A succulent perennial plant belonging to the lily family, aloe vera grows wild in Madagascar and large portions of the African continent. Because of its many therapeutic uses, it is now commercially cultivated in the United States, Japan, and countries in the Caribbean and Mediterranean. Many individuals also grow aloe as a houseplant.
The aloe plant is best known for its healing aloe vera gel, a thin, clear, jellylike substance that can be squeezed or scraped from the inner part of the fleshy leaf. A soothing juice is also made from this gel.
Another substance from the same plant, aloe vera latex, is taken from specialized cells along the inner leaf skin (called the pericyclic tubules). The latex is extracted as a liquid, then dried into a yellow powder. Because it's such a potent laxative, the latex is not usually used alone but combined with gentler herbs, such as cascara sagrada. Germany's Commission E approves of using small amounts of aloe vera latex to relieve constipation, but only for short-term use.
Health Benefits : For centuries, the gel of the aloe vera plant has been used as a soothing topical remedy for minor burns and wounds. It continues to be popular for treating sunburns and other first-degree burns because it appears to speed healing.
In addition, aloe vera gel is used to treat minor surface irritations, to reduce psoriasis symptoms, to lessen the painful effects of shingles, and to shrink warts. It even has a reputation as a beauty aid.
Various research studies are underway to explore the potential of aloe vera components to boost immunity and combat the HIV virus, and to treat certain types of cancer (particularly leukemia). It may even have a role to play in managing diabetes.
Specifically, aloe vera may help to:

• Speed healing of first-degree burns, including sunburns. The gel is excellent for easing first-degree burns (including sunburns) and certain minor second-degree burns. If applied after the burn has cooled, it will relieve pain and inflammation and accelerate healing. In one study of 27 people with moderately severe burns, those who used aloe vera healed in about 12 days on average, whereas the control group, who covered the affected areas with a regular gauze dressing, took 18 days to heal.

• Soothe and hasten healing of cuts, scrapes, and other minor wounds and skin irritations. The gel contains a number of active ingredients, including substances known to help relieve pain, reduce swelling, quell itching, and increase blood flow to an injured area. Some research even indicates that the gel has anti fungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.
  Conversely, aloe vera gel may not help treat deeper, infected wounds, or those incurred during surgery. In one study at a Los Angeles hospital, 21 women were given either aloe vera gel or a placebo for wounds resulting from a caesarean section or surgery to the abdominal wall. When the gel was used, it took 83 days for the wounds to heal; when the placebo was applied, it took 53 days. (Both groups also received standard anti-infective treatments.)

• Lessen painful effects of shingles. Applied gently to the painful lesions that characterize this condition, aloe vera gel acts promptly to soothe these sores and provide relief from itching. It also works to decrease the chances that the blisters will become infected.

• Reduce symptoms of psoriasis. The ability of aloe vera gel to promote healing and quell itching and pain may offer some relief to those who suffer from this troubling condition. In a recent study of 60 people with chronic psoriasis, 83% of those who applied aloe to lesions three times a day for eight months experienced substantial improvement. Only 6% of those using a placebo benefited from its effects.

• Ease heartburn, ulcers, diverticular disorders, and other types of digestive upset. A juice made from the aloe gel acts as an anti-inflammatory and can be taken internally as a remedy for certain digestive complaints. European folk medicine calls for using aloe vera juice to relieve heartburn and ulcers.
  While there is very little substantive evidence to support these internal uses, preliminary research has shown promising results. In one Japanese study, 17 of 18 patients who took aloe vera juice found some relief for their peptic ulcers. However, none of the participants was given a placebo, so comparisons of its effectiveness could not be made. Other clinical trials in Japan indicate that certain compounds in aloe vera reduce the secretion of stomach juices and the formation of lesions.

• spray
• lotion
• liquid
• gel
• cream
• capsule

Dosage Information
Special tips:

• As a general rule, keep in mind that products that include "aloe vera extract" or "reconstituted aloe vera" may be much less potent than pure (more than 98%) aloe vera. Put another way, be sure to look at the label on any commercial aloe product to see if aloe vera is one of the first few ingredients listed.

• For sunburn preparations, confirm that the product contains at least 20% aloe vera.

• Aloe vera latex is available in capsule form, usually in combination with other (and more gentle) laxatives.

For burns, cuts, scrapes, shingles, and other skin problems: Apply aloe gel to affected area two or three times a day. For sunburns, you can also add 1 or 2 cups of aloe vera juice to a tub of lukewarm water and soak.
For heartburn: Drink 2 ounces of juice four times a day.
For ulcers and diverticular disorders: Drink 1/2 cup of aloe vera juice twice a day for one month. If you are also taking psyllium for a diverticular disorder, allow at least two hours to elapse before having aloe vera juice.
For warts: Dab a small amount of fresh or prepared aloe vera gel on a compress made of cotton gauze or flannel, and place over the wart. Change the dressing and apply new aloe vera daily. Improvement should be evident in three to four days.
Be sure to check out our Dosage Recommendations Chart for Aloe Vera, which lists therapeutic dosages for specific ailments at a glance.
Guidelines for Use

• The most effective and economical source of the gel is an aloe vera plant, which is easy to grow, even on a sunny city window sill. Cut off one of its plumper leaves and wash it off with soap and water. Then slit the leaf lengthwise, and squeeze out the clear gel from the center. Apply and gently spread the gel on to the painful area and let it dry; repeat the application as needed.

• Use common sense when treating a wound; before applying aloe vera gel, first clean the area thoroughly.

• When buying aloe vera juice, check to make sure that the one you select is derived from aloe vera gel, not from aloe latex. Also make sure the juice product contains a minimum of 98% aloe vera and that it does not have any aloin or aloe-emoin compounds, the key substances in aloe latex.

• Be sure to drink aloe vera juice between meals.

• When shopping for aloe vera juice, look for the "IASC-certified" seal; it is allowed only on products that contain certified raw ingredients that have been processed according to standards set by the International Aloe Science Council, a voluntary certification organization.

• Creams and ointments should contain at least 20% aloe

• Be aware that the long-term use of any laxative, including aloe vera latex, can cause you to lose an excessive amount of the mineral potassium. The low blood levels of potassium can be further worsened if you are also taking a potassium-draining diuretic ("water-pill") like hydrochlorothiazide or furosemide.

• Dangerous heart rhythm abnormalities can develop if you take a digitalis heart medication (like digoxin or Lanoxin) along with a potassium-losing diuretic and the aloe vera latex. Consult your doctor for guidance.

• If you are on oral corticosteroids, such as beclomethasone, methylprednisolone, or prednisone, it is important not to overuse or misuse aloe vera juice. A potassium deficiency can develop, and you may experience toxic effects from the medication.

• If you are on the oral corticosteroid fludorocortisone (Florinef), it is important not to overuse or misuse aloe vera latex. A potassium deficiency can develop, and you may experience toxic effects from the medication.

• As a topical treatment, aloe vera is quite safe. Occasionally, some people develop a mild allergic reaction marked by itching or a rash. If this occurs, discontinue use.

• Due to improper processing, aloe vera juice sometimes contains small quantities of the laxative compound in aloe latex. Should you begin to have cramps, diarrhea, or loose stools, do not ingest any more of the juice and replace it with a new supply.

• Don't take an aloe vera latex laxative if you are pregnant or breast-feeding; it may trigger uterine contractions. Also avoid using it during a menstrual period.

• Children and the elderly should not consume an aloe vera latex laxative internally. In addition, laxatives of any kind should never be used by anyone with an intestinal obstruction, an acutely inflammatory intestinal disease (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), appendicitis, or abdominal pain of unknown cause.

Aloe Vera (Intestinal, Skin) is native to Africa but is grown today in the West Indies and the American Southwest. Aloe is a member of the lily family, although it resembles cactus. It's been used since ancient times, but only recently has it enjoyed a rediscovery and subsequent popularity explosion.
Due to increased demand, many companies manufacture aloe vera. Unfortunately, many of these products lose much of the plant’s original benefits by over processing. Some claim to have removed the disagreeable taste of the plant’s juice, for example. But in doing so, they end up with a product that is only 10-15 percent aloe vera, at best. Nature’s Sunshine’s aloe vera is processed in a special way to avoid the loss of essential vitamins, minerals and other active constituents.
The leaf is filleted; then the green outer portion that contains aloin is removed, leaving the gel that remains in the leaf. The gel remains thick when the leaf is first cut, but after a few minutes, an enzymatic reaction causes it to become liquid and freely run out. It is this 100 percent pure liquid that Nature’s Sunshine collects. Because bacteria can thrive on this raw liquid, ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and sodium benzoate are added as preservatives. Sodium benzoate is effective in very low quantities, and is therefore perhaps the best and safest method for preserving aloe vera juice.
Aloe vera is a nutritional storehouse, containing vitamins B1, B2, B6, C, niacinamide, choline and 18 amino acids, in addition to many other nutritional substances. Aloe vera juice is an ingredient in many commercial topical creams, lotions and shampoos. Nature’s Sunshine’s aloe vera juice can also be taken internally with juice or water as an addition to the diet. For external use, Nature’s Sunshine’s aloe vera gel is the item of choice.
The Aloe Vera Gel is created by adding a gelling agent, Irish moss extract, to the juice. Aloe vera gel spreads on quickly and penetrates deeply, leaving no stickiness. It comes in a handy flip-top container. If you enjoy the benefits of regular aloe vera juice, imagine the value of being able to get the whole leaf!
Whole Leaf Aloe Vera provides a higher level of mucopolysaccharides than regular filleted aloe vera. Only the intense cleansing components have been removed, leaving a high level of mucopolysaccharides (7,000 mg per liter). Used externally, it is known for its hydrating and moisturizing properties.
Shake well before use and refrigerate after opening. When using it as an internal dietary supplement, drink 2-6 oz. Aloe Vera Juice daily as is or mixed with water or juice; drink 1 oz. Whole Leaf Aloe Vera juice mixed with 8 oz. water 4-6 times daily.
Commercial Product Specification
Product Description: A single 1 oz. serving daily delivers the full 1,500 milligram dosage of glucosamine shown in clinical tests to help lubricate nourish cartilage, increase the range of motion and flexibility and help maintain joint comfort. This unique liquid delivery system is easy-to-swallow and easy on your stomach because it's made with naturally soothing Aloe Vera.The Aloe Vera harvested for use in Naturade Joint Formula is organically grown in accordance with the California Organic Foods Act of 1990.
Warnings: Keep out of the reach of children.
Ingredients: Other Ingredients: Aloe Vera Gel from Concentrate, Fructose, Citric Acid, Natural Lemon-Lime Flavor, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate.
Recommended Use: As a dietary supplement,drink 1 capuful of Naturade Joint Formula daily. You can also add this refreshing lemon-lime drink to water or your favorite juice. In order to obtain maximum benefit, it is important to take this product regularly for four to six weeks. Individual results may vary.
Herbal Aloe Force Aloe Vera Juice and Gel is bio-protected®, meaning that it is never heated at any time from field to bottle and has never experienced temperatures above 90 degrees.
Herbal Aloe Force Aloe Vera Juice and Gel contain no laxative properties because the aloin are carefully removed from the plant to one part per million or less by a unique, proprietary process which does not damage the healing constituents of aloe vera. Because Herbal Aloe Force uses the whole leaf, the juice and gel contain maximum potency while the natural proportions of the aloe vera are maintained. No water is added or removed. At the same time the nutrients of the aloe vera are maximized by organically growing the aloe.
Herbal Force Aloe Vera Juice 32 oz. : Although the use of aloe vera gel on the skin is well-known to relieve burns and sunburn, little attention has been given to the amazing effects of drinking properly prepared aloe vera juice. In fact aloe vera has an amazing number of healthful effects when ingested orally.
Aloe Vera Juice restores and maintains:
1. Balance of Stomach Acids: Aloe has been shown to promote and maintain the proper balance of stomach acids promoting complete digestion.
2. Healthy Tissue Linings: Tissue regeneration properties of aloe actually rebuild tissue of the stomach, small, large intestine and colon tissue. Research has shown that aloe stimulates the fibroblasts to produce new tissue. Fibroblasts, when stimulated, produce collagen, proteoglycans and other co-factors to make new tissue. In addition, aloe's anti-flammatory and analgesic also aid in soothing irritated tissues and promoting healthy tissue linings and repair.
In addition, aloe polysaccharides have many properties that enhance the gastrointestinal system. These polysaccharides improve the activity of immune cells which means the immune cells are better able to kill bacteria and viruses, cleanse and eliminate waste and toxic build up, among other activities.
And finally, aloe contributes to the nutritional absorption and penetration. Aloe improves digestive functioning and tissues of the gastrointestinal system, which in turn improves absorption of nutrients in general.
Drink up to 4 oz. of aloe vera juice, two to five times a day as needed. It is recommended to begin at smaller doses.
Ingredients: Aloe Vera, Cat's Claw Extract, Chamomile Extract, Burdock Root Extract, Hawthorne Berry Extract, Astragalus Root Extract, Sheep Sorrel Extract, Pau d' Arco Bark Extract, Slippery Elm Bark Extract, Rhubarb Root Extract, Sodium Benzoate (0.1%), and Natural Fruit Extract.
Pure Aloe Vera Juice 32 oz. : A recent study presented at the 2002 International Aloe Science Council Conference showed that effectiveness of vitamins increased 3 fold when taken with aloe. The study was done with both vitamin C (water soluble) and vitamin E (fat soluble). Taken with aloe, each vitamin was found to be 3 times more present and to last longer in the blood stream than when taken with water.
Aloe supports the healthy functioning of the kidneys, liver, colon and skin system and supports healthy elimination of toxins.
Aloe has been shown to support the entire detoxification process by breaking down built up mucous and waste, cells pushing out more toxins and supporting the proper elimination of these wastes through the blood, kidneys, liver, colon and skin systems as well as establishing healthy digestive processes and tissues. The enhanced removal of toxins and supporting the rejuvenation of healthy and balanced digestive and elimination processes helps to reduce sensitivities and allergic reactions.
Mix with Fruit Juice for a super antioxidant drink!
Herbal Force Aloe Vera Gel 4 oz. : Use aloe vera on the skin to relieve burns and to keep skin looking clean, clear, smooth, toned, hydrated and glowing with health.
Ingredients: Aloe Vera with Cat's Claw Herb, "Essiac" Herbs (Sheep Sorrel, Burdock Root, Slippery Elm Bark Extract, Rhubarb Root Extract), Chamomile, Astragalus, Hawthorne Berry, Pau d' Arco, Green Tea, Ionized Colliodal Silver, Hyaluronic Acid, Glycereth-26, Sodium Benzoate and Carbomer.