PLANT OF THE MONTH

                                                          ALOE VERA

(Sources: http://www.lilyofthedesert.com, http://www.almanac.com)

History has shown us that aloe vera is one of the oldest mentioned plants on record due to its medicinal properties and health benefits. Ancient Chinese and Egyptians used aloe vera to treat burns, wounds, and reduce fever. 

Legend reports that Alexander the Great, upon the advice of Aristotle, conquered the island of Socotra, off the coast of Africa, to secure supplies of aloe vera in order to treat wounded soldiers. Cleopatra used aloe in her daily skin treatments. In 1944, the Japanese who were exposed to the “A” bomb applied aloe gel to their wounds and reported faster healing and less scaring.

Aloe vera (barbadensis Miller) is grown commercially for the health and moisturising benefits found inside its leaves. The aloe vera plant is one of the most studied herbs in the natural products category. An adult aloe vera plant reaches maturity at 3-4 years and can reach a height of 30 inches with up to 21 leaves.

Aloe vera contains over 200 biologically active, naturally-occurring constituents including polysaccharides, vitamins, enzymes, amino acids, and minerals that promote nutrient absorption, digestive health, a healthy immune system, and a reduction of nitrates.

  • TSupport healthy digestion
  • Moisturise and hydrate skin
  • Support a healthy immune system
  • Reduce harmful toxins
  • Increase absorption of nutrients
  • Enhance antioxidant support
  • Balance stomach acidity naturally
  • Soothe occasional muscle and joint discomfort

PLANTING

  • Plant in wide containers with a well-draining potting mix, such as for cacti/succulents.
  • Place in indirect sunlight or artificial light.

CARE

  • Water aloe deeply but then allow the soil to dry at least 1 to 2 inches deep between waterings, in order to discourage rot; water even less in winter.
  • Aloe plants produce offsets or plantlets or “babies” that can be removed to produce an entirely new plant. 
    Knock your Aloe out of its pot and find where the offsets are attached. Sever them from the mother plant with a knife. Allow the cuts on the offsets and the mother plant to callus over for a day or two. Pot them in a standard potting mix. Put in a sunny location. Wait a week to water and keep the soil on the dry side.