Names & Classification
- Botanical Name
- Aloe barbadensis
- Sanskrit Name
- Kumari / Ghritkumari
- English Name(s)
- Aloe Vera
- Family
- Asphodelaceae
- Part Used
- Inner leaf gel/juice
About This Herb
Aloe Vera is one of the world's most recognized healing plants. Its clear, cooling gel soothes and heals both externally and internally. When taken as a juice, it calms inflamed digestive tracts, supports liver health, and promotes gentle daily detoxification.
Where It Grows
Native to southeast Arabian Peninsula (Hajar Mountains in northeast Oman and eastern UAE) and northern Africa (Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Cape Verde, Canary Islands, Madeira). Large-scale cultivation in USA, Mexico, India, Australia, Cuba, China, Jamaica, Kenya, South Africa, Spain. Flourishes in arid to semi-tropical climates with high drought tolerance.
Ayurvedic Profile
Called 'Kumari' (young maiden) because of its anti-aging and rejuvenative properties. Classified as a premier Pitta-shamaka (Pitta-pacifying) and Rasayana. Aloe is uniquely Tridoshic in its action on the digestive system. In Bhaishajya Ratnavali, Kumari Asava is prescribed for liver and spleen disorders. Rasa: Tikta (Bitter), Madhura (Sweet). Virya: Sheeta (Cooling). Vipaka: Katu (Pungent). Dosha: Pacifies Pitta; supports Kapha in moderation.
Key Benefits
Digestive soothing, liver support, skin healing, immune modulation, gentle detoxification
Research & Studies
The following research highlights scientific validation of traditional uses:
A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of an Aloe vera (A. barbadensis) emulsion in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis
Authors: Dermatology Research Team
Journal: Journal of Dermatological Treatment (2000)
Double-blind placebo-controlled trial showed significant decrease in scaliness, pruritus, and number of affected sites in seborrheic dermatitis with Aloe vera treatment, though erythema did not improve significantly.
Aloe Barbadensis Miller (Aloe Vera): Pharmacological activities and clinical evidence for disease prevention
Authors: International Research Team
Journal: International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research (2024)
Comprehensive review of pharmacological activities including anti-cancer action, skin and digestive protective activity, and antimicrobial properties with clinical trial evidence for multiple disease conditions.
Pharmacological Update Properties of Aloe Vera and its Major Active Constituents
Authors: PMC/MDPI Research Team
Journal: PMC/MDPI Molecules (2020)
Review identified over 200 biologically active compounds in Aloe vera with most investigated being aloe-emodin, aloin, aloesin, and acemannan showing anti-inflammatory, immune-modulating, and wound-healing properties.
Evaluation of biological properties and clinical effectiveness of Aloe vera: A systematic review
Authors: ScienceDirect Research Team
Journal: ScienceDirect/Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2014)
Meta-analysis of nine studies in non-insulin dependent diabetics showed Aloe vera supplementation significantly decreased fasting blood glucose by 46.6 mg/dL and HbA1c by 1.05%.
Pharmacological attribute of Aloe vera: Revalidation through experimental and clinical studies
Authors: PMC Research Team
Journal: PMC (PubMed Central) (2010)
Research validated traditional uses of Aloe vera through demonstration of antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities across multiple experimental and clinical models.
Products Containing Aloe Vera
- Fema Plex (Classical Formulation)
- Aloe Vera Juice (Juice)
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have pre-existing health conditions.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.