Homeland of aloe: the origin of the houseplant

The deserts of Africa and Socotra are considered the homeland of aloe, and the plant is also found in Madagascar and the Arabian Peninsula. Its healing properties have been known for a long time. Even in ancient times, aloe was used as a medicine in South Africa, Egypt, and Persia. Then, thanks to international trade, the fame of this amazing plant spread throughout the world.

General features of the plant

Aloe is a perennial plant belonging to the Asphodelaceae family. Modern botany includes more than 500 species of this crop. This genus belongs to succulents - organisms capable of accumulating nutrients. Therefore, it is highly resistant to changes in the external environment and has increased viability.

Depending on the species, the plant may be a shrub, tree, or herbaceous plant. The stems are usually shortened. Often they are not difficult to see under the leaf blades.

The leaves are collected in a basal rosette. They are arranged on the stem in a spiral. The plates are lanceolate or xiphoid in shape, pointed along the edge. When the plant is overwatered, the leaves increase in size, become elastic and hard. During periods of drought, leaves lose turgor and become smaller.

The color of the plates is represented by shades of green. Sometimes they have white stripes or stains. There may be spines or thorns on the sides of the plates.

A universal remedy in folk medicine

Aloe, thanks to its properties, is considered a popular medicine among all known medicinal plants in folk medicine.

The most valuable in aloe are the juicy, fleshy lower leaves, at least three years old, which should be broken off at the base of the stem.

Thanks to its unique composition, the succulent increases the body’s defenses and allows it to independently fight various diseases, namely:

has a positive effect on the functional state of the central nervous system;
promotes activation of the immune system, preventing damage by viruses and various types of infections;
improves the condition of the digestive system, stabilizes intestinal function, relieves heartburn, flatulence, constipation;
cleanses the body of toxins, waste, radionuclides;
heals various purulent wounds, ulcers, burns, abscesses, boils;
reduces glucose levels in the body, gradually eliminating diabetes;
helps cope with eye problems such as conjunctivitis, keratitis, blepharitis and myopia;
improves performance and processes of memorizing and reproducing information.

Aloe - food, medicine and cosmetics:

An indoor aloe flower is not only an interior decoration, but also a natural green medicine cabinet on the windowsill.

The aloe vera flower, or agave, is a valuable ornamental and medicinal plant; it can often be found in homes as a houseplant. But do we know its origin and properties?

Humanity has been growing and propagating this flower for at least three thousand years and has learned to extract useful substances from it. Let's take a closer look at these issues.

Representatives of the genus Aloe belong to succulent plants; they are able to store water in their tissues and use it very sparingly during periods of drought in natural conditions. The genus contains about 500 species. The origin of the name “Aloe” is interesting. In the Greek language there is a word that is similar in sound and has the meaning “salt”; the word “to give” is also similar in phonetics. It can be assumed that the Greeks named this plant as it produces a juice similar to sea salt.

In Latin, "aloe" means "bitterness, bitter." A similar-sounding word exists in Arabic and Hebrew.

Plants of the genus Aloe are native to the arid regions of southern tropical Africa, the island of Madagascar and the Arabian Peninsula. But the Aloe vera plant comes from the Canary Islands. In addition to Aloe vera, we are well aware of Aloe arborescens; it is called “gave plant” in Russian.

In natural conditions, this plant is a spreading shrub up to 3 m high. The leaves are fleshy with a wavy edge. If you look at the lumen of the leaf, you will notice “capsules” with liquid. It was in them that this plant stored water in nature. Aloe vera has a very short stem, the leaves are collected in a dense rosette and have a variegated color. In addition to the types of aloe listed above, Aloe tiger (variegated), dichotomous, folded and other types can be distinguished.

Homeland and history of growing aloe

The exact location where the plant was discovered is unknown at this stage of the research. Based on the fact that this crop can grow only in warm climates, scientists are inclined to believe that only warm countries can be its homeland. It is generally accepted that the lands of Madagascar and South Africa are the birthplace of aloe.

The first mentions of culture appeared in 2000 BC. It is described in the Bible and historical chronicles. Cave paintings depicting a plant resembling a tree-like aloe were found by archaeologists during excavations of the tombs of the pharaohs of Ancient Egypt.

The culture was brought to Europe in the 18th century. Aloe was accepted as a gift by the husband of General Craig. It was she who first brought the plant from Africa to the UK.

Today, aloe can be found as an outdoor plant in the following places:

Türkiye;
Egypt;
South and West Asia;
Greece;
Ethiopia;
Somalia;
SOUTH AFRICA;
Zimbabwe;
Mozambique;
Swaziland;
Malawi.

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Healing effect

It is believed that the pulp of a plant that has reached the age of 4 years has the greatest therapeutic effect. The healing power and concentration of beneficial substances also depends on the soil in which it grows. You should also not neglect the rules for storing cut leaves. Pre-washed leaves should be wrapped in paper and kept in the refrigerator for 10-14 days. They can then be used to prepare medicinal products.

Aloe vera is unparalleled due to its unique chemical composition.

Amino acids are organic compounds necessary for the formation of protein. Amino acids are important for maintaining good health and mental alertness. These substances help fight chronic fatigue syndrome, viral infections and insomnia.

Enzymes are substances that accelerate processes in the body. They help break down polysaccharides and proteins, promote fiber absorption and prevent the accumulation of excess fluid in cells.

Polysaccharides help strengthen and accelerate cell regeneration processes.

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The pulp and juice contain a large amount of vitamins:

Vitamin A is essential for healthy skin and bones. Helps fight free radicals.
Vitamins B1 are indispensable for the proper functioning of the brain and increase vital activity.
Vitamin B2 is important for the beauty and health of skin and bones.
Vitamin B3 increases activity, promotes energy production, and speeds up metabolism.
Vitamin B6 stabilizes hormonal levels.
Vitamin C strengthens the immune system, promotes collagen production, and helps resist viral infections.
Vitamin E is necessary for tissue restoration, promotes healing, “vitamin of youth”, improves the condition and appearance of skin, hair and nails.
Vitamin B9 strengthens the nervous system and improves the functioning of brain cells.

Antioxidants are groups of organic compounds that neutralize free radicals and protect cell membranes from harmful factors. Antioxidants contribute to the healing of the body, renewal and rejuvenation of tissues.

Anthrachions (Anthracene, Anthracene, Imodin, Resistanol) are powerful antiviral and antibacterial substances that provide the regenerating and bactericidal effect of the juice.

Thus, the beneficial properties of the juice and pulp of the plant cannot be overestimated. It is used to treat a number of chronic diseases, as well as for general strengthening of the body.

For gastrointestinal diseases

Aloe vera juice has long been used to treat gastritis and peptic ulcers. Regular consumption of the drink with juice on an empty stomach heals the gastric mucosa and reduces the activity of gastric juice.

Since the juice contains substances that are powerful natural antibiotics, it is used to treat gastrointestinal diseases caused by various viruses (dysentery, intestinal infections, etc.)

Aloe juice is also known for its laxative effect, so it is used for chronic constipation. In such cases, you can also use sabur - yellow powder.

For pancreatitis, aloe juice promotes the outflow of bile and stimulates the pancreas. However, it is not recommended to treat pancreatitis in this way in a state of exacerbation of the disease and with increased secretion of the pancreas.

For diseases of the ear, nose and throat

Aloe juice has an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effect, so it is often used to treat ENT diseases.

For sinusitis caused by inflammation, aloe can be used as an adjuvant to increase the antiseptic and antimicrobial effect.

Aloe is used for the complex treatment of bronchitis and is used for exacerbation of asthma. The substances contained in the juice promote the removal of mucus and the renewal of mucous tissue.

Aloe juice is also sometimes used to treat prolonged annoying cough. In this case, the effect of healing irritated mucous membranes, removing sputum and fighting the virus that caused the disease is achieved.

For a runny nose, the juice is instilled into the nasal passages. In this way, mucous membranes are disinfected and the immune system is strengthened locally. It is recommended to dilute the juice with water to avoid dry nose.

Before contact with a patient with ARVI and during an outbreak of infections, it is also recommended to instill aloe juice into the nose.

In case of damage to the skin

Aloe contains natural antiseptics in large quantities. It is recommended to apply the sheet to cuts and abrasions. The gel, which is released when the sheet breaks, promotes tissue regeneration after burns. It is useful to apply the paste to an area of skin after a chemical or thermal burn.

The plant is used to draw out pus for various purulent inflammations and abscesses on the skin. Overall, aloe helps soften and soothe irritated skin and relieve redness and dryness.

For weight loss

Drinks based on aloe juice help normalize metabolism, which is why it is often used to combat excess weight. Natural antioxidants help cleanse the body from the effects of free radicals.

It is also known about the use of aloe for weight loss, associated with a pronounced laxative effect.

If you have a poor appetite, it is recommended to drink aloe juice. The substances it contains help produce enzymes that increase appetite.

Origin and description of aloe species

Aloe is very popular in indoor floriculture. It can be found in almost every home. As a rule, gardeners grow 3 types of plants: Tree, Vera and Variegated varieties.

Treelike

The tree-like species (also called agave) is represented by trees or shrubs and is characterized by strong branching. South Africa is considered the birthplace of the plant.

Representatives of the species have an erect trunk, the thickness of which in natural growing conditions reaches 30 cm. At the bottom of the trunk of an adult bush there are numerous scars from leaves.

The leaves grow alternately, clasping the stem. They have a lanceolate shape. The edges of the plates are covered with spikes. The front part of the plates is somewhat concave, while the back part is, on the contrary, convex. The maximum leaf length of a representative of this species is 65 cm.

At the top of the stem, the leaves form dense rosettes. Most often, the color of the plates is a monochromatic bluish-green shade. But there are specimens with grayish leaves.

Representatives of the species are characterized by rather large inflorescences. The tubular flowers open like a bell. Drooping, six-petalled baskets are supported on thin stalks. They are collected in racemose inflorescences reaching up to 40 cm in length. The outer petals are orange, while the inner petals are white with a distinct orange longitudinal vein.

Faith

Aloe Vera is a herbaceous plant. In nature, this species can be found on the Canary Islands.

The chemical composition of Vera is very similar to the composition of the Tree species of this crop. Representatives of the species are characterized by a shortened trunk, which is practically invisible under the leaves.

The leaves grow strictly in order. The leaf axil almost completely covers the trunk. The shape of the plates is lanceolate, narrowed towards the edge. At the base of the stem, the leaves of Vera are collected in a dense rosette. Like the Tree species, the leaves of the Vera are concave at the top and convex at the bottom. The plates reach 60 cm in length. They are fleshy and thick, elastic to the touch. There are spines along the lateral edges of the plates.

This species is distinguished by its unusual leaf color. On a light green, as if faded, background, discreet white strokes are thickly applied.

The flowers are tubular, drooping. They are collected in an inflorescence located on a long flower-bearing arrow. The color of the petals varies from bright orange to orange-yellow.

Motley

Aloe Variegated is also called Tiger Aloe. The species is native to South Africa and Namibia.

Representatives of this species are positioned as herbaceous plants and are characterized by very short stems. Leaves are placed in a spiral around the trunk. Due to the fact that the plates almost completely cover the stem, it is very difficult to notice. The trunk is widened at the base.

The leaves are collected in a basal rosette. The plates cannot be called long: in an adult plant they reach no more than 15 cm. Compared to Vera and Tree Aloe, the leaves of the Variegated species are much wider. Moreover, they are triangular rather than lanceolate in shape. The leaf blades are flattened, slightly thicker at the base than at the edge. On the sides of the plates there are underdeveloped spines, which are often confused with pile.

The leaf color consists of two colors. The main tone is a thick and rich shade of green. It is slightly lighter at the base and darker at the tip of the leaf. Transverse white patterns are applied across the entire surface of the plates, the pattern of which resembles a tiger. The sides of the sheet are edged with a thin white stripe.

This species blooms in late spring. Drooping flowers of bright orange color are collected in clusters of inflorescences. They are located on an erect flower-bearing arrow.

What are the differences between aloe vera and aloe vera (agagave)

If you compare aloe vera and agave, the differences between them are in appearance and method of application. The name of the tree aloe (agagave) speaks for itself - it has a trunk from which leaves extend. Faith grows in the form of a rosette, almost not rising above the surface of the earth.

The main difference between aloe and aloe vera is that the second is grown on an industrial scale in entire plantations for the production of medicines and cosmetics .

Medicinal juice is extracted only from the leaves of four-year-old plants; in tree aloe, the stem is also processed.

Creating natural conditions during cultivation

Aloe is a very unpretentious plant, so it is easy to grow. The only thing the flower cannot tolerate is low air temperatures. The optimal conditions for growing the crop are presented in the following table.

Care section	Description
Lighting	Bright sunlight. In winter, additional lighting is required.
Temperature	In the warm season, a temperature range from 18℃ to 30℃ is acceptable. In winter, it is recommended to lower the temperature, but not lower than 12℃.
Humidity level	Average or high humidity levels, typical for residential premises.
Watering	During the growing season - on demand (as soon as the top layer of soil dries out). During dormancy, it is recommended to limit watering to 2 times a week.
Top dressing	Not required.
Rest period	From October to April.
Transfer	In the spring. Young plants - annually, adults - once every 3-4 years.
Substrate	Turf soil, leaf soil, sand (2:1:1)
Drainage layer	Expanded clay, pebbles, broken brick.
Flower pot	Deep and wide. Be sure to have drainage holes and a removable tray.

If not properly cared for, the plant can be affected by dry and root rot. Also, the flower may be susceptible to attacks by harmful insects: aphids, scale insects, mealybugs and spider mites.

Reproduction methods

Aloe vera can be propagated at any time of the year , but rooting is best in early spring. At the same time, it is convenient to replant the flower and separate the root shoots from it.

Rooting cuttings

A cutting for rooting is essentially a leaf cut at the base:

It must be left at room temperature for 2-3 hours.
After this, the leaf is planted in wet sand to a depth of 2 cm.
It is recommended to maintain the high humidity necessary for root growth by spraying with a spray bottle.
Replant into good soil after active growth begins.

We propagate by children (root shoots)

The long process of rooting cuttings may not be necessary if daughter shoots form near the mother plant.

This type of reproduction is typical for older aloe plants (about 3–4 years old) . Children need to be separated during spring transplantation and immediately planted in an adult substrate.

Growing from seeds

Purchased seeds are planted in spilled boiling water and cooled soil. The container is covered with cellophane and placed in light at room temperature . In the future, it is necessary to periodically moisten the soil and ventilate the greenhouse for half an hour a day.

When the shoots appear, you should not immediately remove the film - it is better to accustom them to room air gradually over 1-2 weeks.

Benefit

The healing properties of aloe are not a modern discovery; they were used in ancient times. Typically, the juice of the plant is used to treat various diseases . It helps with problems with the gastrointestinal tract and various digestive organs, gastritis, asthma, tuberculosis and anemia.

Aloe juice can be dripped into the eyes for a number of eye diseases, although it plays a vitamin role rather than a medical one. In folk medicine it is used as a healing agent for wounds, burns and other skin damage, although it has no proven effectiveness in this area.

Aloe can cause poisoning, so it should not be used in food. This is especially important for pregnant women to know: aloe juice can cause a miscarriage.