Aloe Vera in Traditional Herbal Medicine

This profile of Aloe vera presents an historical look at the use of aloe in the major traditional healing systems. This profile of aloe is not intended as medical advice.

Aloe Vera in Traditional Herbal Medicine

No one is really sure how far back our use of aloe goes but the earliest recorded account of aloe dates to around 2200 BCE. The ancient Egyptians used aloe, as did the ancient Greeks. In fact, one legend tells us that Alexander the Great was urged to conquer the island of Socotra just so his troops could have a steady supply of this wound remedy.

Botanically, the species of aloe used most often in herbal medicine is known as Aloe vera. You may think of aloe as a Southwestern plant but, actually, aloe didn't reach the Americas until relatively recently. Aloe is native to small areas of the Mediterranean but today grows wild in dry, sunny areas around the world.

Aloe vera in Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, aloe is known as Kumari, or "young girl", because aloe is believed to bring back youthful energy and femininity. Not surprising is aloe's use as a tonic for the female reproductive system.

Aloe is seen in Ayurveda as having alliterative, tonic, rejuvenating, purgative and vulnerary actions. Aloe is believed to tone the liver, spleen, blood and reproductive organs. Aloe is also believed to tone all three of the Ayurveda constitutions, Vatta, Pitta, and Kapha, though in large doses, it can worsen Vatta conditions.

Aloe vera in Traditional Chinese Medicine

In traditional Chinese herbalism, aloe is considered a food to reduce toxic heat. Like their Ayurvedic peers, Chinese herbalists recognized aloe's potential as a purgative; they used aloe to expel worms, alleviate constipation and normalize bowel movements.

Aloe in Traditional European Herbalism

Though Aloe vera is native to the Mediterranean region, aloe didn't find its way into widespread use in Europe until around 1000 CE. But after its introduction, aloe quickly became a mainstay of European medicine and became the purgative of choice for various ailments.

Aloe in Native American Healing