Herbier des Anciens — Detailed Record

Aloe vera

Please read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace advice from a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.

Enhanced precautions for this plant: The yellow latex (aloin) contained beneath the leaf skin is a powerful purgative, irritating, and contraindicated during pregnancy, breastfeeding, in children, and in cases of intestinal disease: its internal use requires advice from a healthcare professional. Never consume the gel or sap without ensuring complete removal of the yellow latex, properly rinsed after cutting the leaf. Prolonged internal use of the latex may cause electrolyte imbalances and interact with certain medications, particularly diuretics and cardiac treatments. For topical application, perform a test on a small area of skin, as some individuals may experience allergic reactions to the gel.

Fresh gel — Leaf pulp (gel), without the yellow latex

Soothing gel for the skin

Cut a fresh leaf, allow the bitter yellow sap to drain, then rinse thoroughly. Scoop out the transparent pulp with a spoon and apply directly to clean skin in a thin layer. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Compress — Leaf gel

Cooling compress

Soak a compress with fresh gel previously rinsed of all latex, then apply to the affected area for about fifteen minutes. Repeat as needed during the day. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Diluted juice — Leaf gel

Aloe juice for internal use (with caution)

Pure gel, carefully cleared of all yellow latex, can be blended and diluted in water for occasional internal use. This traditional practice requires prior advice from a healthcare professional, due to variations in composition between plants. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

Aloe vera is easily grown in pots on a sunny balcony or can be found in garden centers; prepared gel and juice are also widely available in herbal shops and specialized stores.

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