Aloe vera, our favorite spiky green houseplant gem, is made up of 99.5% water, but the 0.5% solid portions are known to have the most active nutrients. Since the ancient civilizations, Aloe vera had a fascinating story with myths and facts. Here are a few of the facts:
• It has thick, green fleshy leaves that can grow as high as two or three feet tall.
• An adult Aloe vera plant reaches maturity at 3-4 years and can have up to 21 leaves.
• Aloe vera is a member of the lily family.
• There are approximately 300 species of aloe vera but only four of them are cultivated for their health benefits and aloe vera, also known as ‘true aloe’, is the most popular for medical applications.
• A study in Spain has proved that a thin layer of Aloe vera gel can act as a natural food preservative.
• The most valuable part of the aloe vera plant is the clear gel found inside the leaves, which contains 75 nutrients, including amino acids, vitamins, minerals and enzymes
• Aloe also has anti-fungal and antibacterial qualities which can stop wounds from getting infected.
• It is an evergreen perennial plant.
• Aloe vera is found in many consumer products including beverages, skin lotion, cosmetics, or ointments for minor burns and sunburns.
• Aloe leaf contains latex that is effective as a laxative, but this should only be ingested in small amounts because large doses can be toxic.
