ALOE VERA PLANTS
Scientific Name: Aloe vera
Common Names: Aloe, Barbados Aloe, Medicinal Aloe, Burn Plant
Description:
Aloe vera is a succulent plant species native to the Arabian Peninsula but widely cultivated around the world. It’s prized for the gel contained within its leaves, which has numerous medicinal and cosmetic uses.
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Size: Aloe vera plants typically grow to a height of 60-100 cm (24-39 inches) and a spread of 40-50 cm (16-20 inches).
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Leaves: The defining feature of Aloe vera is its thick, fleshy, green leaves. They grow in a rosette form around a central stem and have pointed edges.
Uses:
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Medicinal: Aloe vera gel is widely used for topical applications to soothe burns, sunburns, and skin irritations.
- Cosmetics: Aloe vera gel is a common ingredient in various cosmetic products like lotions, creams, and shampoos. It’s valued for its moisturizing and soothing properties.
- Laxative: In some cases, Aloe vera latex, a yellow liquid found between the skin and the gel inside the leaves, is used as a laxative.
- Air Purification: Studies suggest Aloe vera may help remove some common indoor air pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene.