Botanical Library
Aloe Vera
Traditional use tradition
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At a glance
Where it's from
Likely originated in the Arabian Peninsula; grown worldwide.
Look & taste
The clear inner gel of a succulent's thick leaves. Mild, slightly bitter
Signature compounds
Polysaccharides (acemannan).
Traditionally used for
An ancient soothing plant for the skin and, taken inside, the digestive tract.
In Canada, we can say...
Source of antioxidants. Used in Herbal Medicine as a demulcent to help soothe irritation of the gastrointestinal tract.
Did you know?
The soothing part is the clear inner gel - the yellow latex just under the skin is a harsh laxative.
History & natural history
Called the 'plant of immortality' by the ancient Egyptians.
What we're actually allowed to say
🇨🇦 Health Canada
✓ Permitted: Source of antioxidants. Used in Herbal Medicine as a demulcent to help soothe irritation of the gastrointestinal tract.
How to use it
As an inner-leaf gel, juice or capsule.
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Request Aloe Vera →Side effects & safety
Check with a practitioner if pregnant or breastfeeding, or (at higher doses) if diabetic. Use the inner-leaf gel, not the whole-leaf laxative latex.
A note on how to read this page. Traditional (TCM / Ayurveda) and holistic notes are cultural and historical context, offered for education — not medical advice or health claims. Health Canada's permitted claims reflect what regulators have assessed. Emerging research is early, and not a promise of results. Nothing here is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always talk to your (or your pet's) health professional before starting a supplement.