Ingredient / Plant: Gheekwar / Aloe vera
Scientific / Botanical Name: Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f.
Family: Asphodelaceae
Note: Musabbar / Sibr / Sabir = Aloe ka dried latex

Description

Aloe vera has been used as a medicinal plant since ancient times and was documented as a healing herb more than 2,000 years ago. The clear gel obtained from the inner portion of the leaf is widely used for soothing minor burns, skin rashes, insect bites, wounds, and chafed nipples during breastfeeding. It helps draw out infection, prevents secondary infection, and supports tissue repair. When taken internally, the gel helps maintain smooth bowel function and may ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

In traditional European medicine, aloe vera juice has been used to relieve heartburn and gastric ulcers. Although large-scale clinical evidence is limited, preliminary studies have shown promising outcomes in peptic ulcer management by reducing gastric secretions and lesion formation. Other studies suggest aloe gel may help reduce blood lipid levels, including cholesterol and triglycerides, thereby supporting cardiovascular health.

Aloe vera is widely regarded as a natural detoxifier. It supports immune function, promotes beneficial intestinal flora, and helps soothe inflamed tissues. It supports liver regeneration and aids recovery from liver damage caused by hepatitis, medications, chemicals, and alcohol. Aloe enhances liver enzyme activity, accelerates alcohol metabolism, and assists in toxin elimination. It contains several naturally occurring antiseptic compounds that support liver health and metabolic balance.

Nutritionally, aloe vera is rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants, and anthraquinones. It is one of the few natural vegetarian sources of vitamin B12. These constituents support immune strength, digestion, and cellular repair. Aloe vera has been traditionally used as a general tonic and has been studied for supportive roles in chronic infections and immune-related disorders.

The bitter yellow latex obtained from the base of the leaf, when dried, is known as Bitter Aloes. It acts as a strong stimulant laxative, producing bowel movement within 8–12 hours. In small doses, it stimulates digestion, while larger doses promote purgation. It also exhibits anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, emmenagogue, and liver-stimulating properties and is traditionally used in hepatitis, splenomegaly, amenorrhoea, intestinal worms, arthritis, and rheumatism.

Recommended Dosage

• Juice: 10–20 ml

• Dried latex powder: 125–500 mg

Contraindications & Precautions

Aloe vera stimulates uterine contractions and should be avoided during pregnancy. As it may pass into breast milk, it should also be avoided during breastfeeding. Internal use is not recommended for children or the elderly. Individuals taking potassium-depleting medications should use caution. Aloe and prescription medicines should be taken at separate times. Rare allergic reactions may occur. Excessive use may aggravate haemorrhoids.

Useful in the Following Conditions