Herbs

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Aloe

Technical Name:	(Aloe vera) Gel extracted from the inside of aloe leaves. Aloe vera is a succulent plant from Africa widely grown as an ornamental in warm regions, and as an indoor houseplant throughout the world.
Used for:	Topical treatment of sunburn, first and second degree burns, skin irritation or inflammation, mosquito bites and rashes from poisonous plants. Aloe vera juice is also taken internally to heal ulcers and other irritations of the intestinal tract.
Available In:	Whole, living plants, commercial gels, lotions and juices. Many people keep an aloe plant in the kitchen to have the gel immediately available in case of an accident.
Herb Drug:	Choose lotions with the highest percentage of aloe gel.
Interaction:	Topical use can trigger rare allergic reactions; may delay surgical wound healing. Burns with significant blistering should be evaluated by trained medical personnel. Taken internally in high doses, aloe is an irritant laxative, so if taken to soothe the lining of the digestive tract, stay below the laxative dose.
When Buying:	None known
Dosage and Warning:	Cut open a lower leaf near the central stalk. Cut off any spines along the edge. Split the leaf lengthwise, open it, and apply the gel generously as needed. For internal use of aloe gel, 30 ml three times a day.
Child Dosage:	Same as adults.

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