|
ALOE VERA
- THE FIRST AID PLANT
There has recently been a considerable revival of interest in the
succulent plant ALOE VERA (also known as ALOE BARBADENSIS) for its uses
in first aid and as a cosmetic ingredient. It is particularly useful
for the treatment of burns including those caused by atomic radiation,
but has also been incorporated into cosmetic products such as face and
body cream by several major companies. It is sometimes an ingredient
of suntan lotion. All of these products make use of the age-old reputation
of ALOE VERA as a skin healer and moisturiser.
HISTORY: - The use of ALOE VERA dates back several thousand years
and it has been widely used by societies all around the world for the
treatment of burns and skin ailments such as dermatitis as well as for
other purposes which utilise its properties as a laxative and as a mildly
effective cure for tuberculosis. Cleopatra’s beauty was reputedly enhanced
by her secret use of ALOE VERA.
USES AND TREATMENT: - The conditions where ALOE VERA treatment is
most beneficial include: thermal and radiation burns, sunburn, chapped
and dry skin, dermatitis and eczema.
To treat a burn, cut a portion of leaf off a plant and squeeze out the
gelatinous sap over the wound. This will quickly form a clear “skin”
and prevent any infection occurring. Alternatively, a suitable sized
piece of leaf can be split along one edge and the leaf opened out. This
is then placed over the affected area and lightly bandaged in position.
The treatment may be renewed at intervals as necessary. Application
of ALOE VERA has an immediate soothing effect, taking away the pain
and burning sensation, and healing rapidly takes place.
N.B. Large burns should always receive qualified medical attention.
CULTIVATION: - ALOE VERA is easy to cultivate and can be grown as
a pot plant in a bright or semi-shaded position on a window ledge or
in a greenhouse, or even under artificial fluorescent lights. It should
be grown in porous compost such as 3 parts peat/coir potting compost
to 1 part sand/grit. Plants should be watered about once a week all
year round - slightly less in the winter. A minimum temperature of 48F
(6 C) is advisable.
(c) Abbey Brook Cactus Nursery.
We Mail Order Aloe Vera for £7.50 Inc P&P
|
|
