DEPARTMENT OF BOTANY
MEDICINAL PLANTS
Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f.
Common Name: Barbados aloe
Family: Liliaceae
Vernacular Names: Gheekumari – Hindi., Sotru katrazhai – Tamil., Kattarvazha – Malayalam
Synonyms: Aloe barbadensis Mill., Aloe chinensis (Haw.) Baker., Aloe flava Pers.
Plant Description: A. vera is a stemless plant growing to 60 – 100 cm tall spreading by offsets. Leaves are thick and fleshy, green to grey-green . Margin of the leaf is serrated and has small white teeth. Flowers are produced on a spike.
Distribution and Habitat: A. vera is considered to be native only to the South-east Arabian Peninsula. It occurs wildly in arid, temperate and tropical regions of temperate regions.
Uses:
It is used to treat psoriasis, acne or rashes, allergic reaction. It is an ingredient in yogurts, beverages and some desserts.
It is used on facial tissues where it is promoted as a moisturizer and anti-irritant to reduce chafing of the nose.
