My Gram was not a health nut. Of Scottish descent and from miners at that, she was not afraid of Scotch and cigarettes. She had a good sense of humor and like to try new things in spite of the trials life had presented her. She taught me how to camp in the mountains, how to fish in streams, the importance of reading. She also taught me about the healing properties of Aloe Vera long before anyone (at least in my little world) was talking about it. 

I was about eight years old and staying with her and my Gramp for a few days. I had been out picking blackberries and raspberries off her bushes in the back. I tripped on a little stone, falling and scraping my knee. I tearily went into the house to show her my wound. She wiped it down, sprayed Bactine on it (ouch) and waited for it to dry. 

Then she walked over to this spiky looking plant in a pot on her sunny counter. She broke a stem off, laid it on the kitchen table and splayed it open with a little steak knife. I was surprised to see how gooey it was!! It was clear and slippery and, well, gooey! She peeled the goo out of it’s outer casing and applied some to my wound. It felt cool and soothing, the sting immediately went away. Amazing! 

Gram told me that this was a good plant to have around the house because it helped lots of types of wounds to heal, including if you burned yourself while you were cooking. As an herbalist in training a couple of decades later, I would also learn about the effects of Aloe Vera on the gut.

At some point, she gave me a cutting of that plant and I still have it thirty years later. 

I have included below, the properties and the effects of Aloe Vera from both the view of TCM and Western herbal knowledge. 

Benefits of Aloe Vera in Traditional Chinese Medicine

 In TCM, Aloe Vera is known as Lu Hui and is renowned for its cooling, moistening, and purgative effects on the body. It is traditionally used to clear heat and toxins, relieve constipation, and promote skin healing, establishing it as a versatile herb for enhancing health and wellness.

Aloe Vera is a cold and bitter herb aligning with the Liver, Large Intestine, and Stomach meridians. It is believed to cool internal heat and reduce inflammation, making it useful for conditions like fever, skin irritations, hemorrhoids, and gastrointestinal problems such as constipation. Aloe Vera also has purgative properties, which help to gently cleanse the digestive tract and strengthen the stomach. Furthermore, it is known for killing parasites and detoxifying the liver, supporting overall digestive health and immune function.

Aloe Vera’s Skin and Healing Properties

Aloe Vera gel, obtained from the leaves, is widely known for its ability to soothe and heal various skin conditions. The gel reduces redness, inflammation, and swelling, making it beneficial for minor burns, sunburns, cuts, insect bites, and acne. This effect is attributed to the plant’s anti-inflammatory compounds, antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E, and immune-stimulating substances such as aloectin B. The gel also promotes the growth of new skin cells, which aids in faster wound healing and lowers the risk of infection.

Internal Health Benefits

Beyond external use, Aloe Vera juice or gel can be consumed to support internal health. TCM practitioners use it to clear heat from the body and promote detoxification, thus improving symptoms linked to digestive discomfort, such as acid reflux and constipation. Clinical studies have shown Aloe Vera can help regulate blood sugar levels and lipid profiles in people with diabetes, showcasing its wider therapeutic potential. Its antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to cardiovascular health and potentially slowing cellular aging. Aloe Vera’s laxative effects aid bowel regularity by gently promoting digestion and bowel movements without harsh side effects when used appropriately.

How to Use Aloe Vera Safely and Effectively

Aloe Vera can be applied topically or taken orally. For skin applications, fresh aloe gel from the leaf is typically spread on affected areas for hydration, soothing, and healing. When ingested, Aloe Vera juice or gel supplements should be chosen with care, ensuring purity and absence of aloe latex, which can cause adverse effects like abdominal cramping. It is important to use Aloe Vera in moderation and consult healthcare professionals, especially for pregnant or menstruating women and those with sensitive digestive systems, as cautioned in TCM.

Hey, thank you all, for supporting me and my writing. I appreciate the kind notes of encouragement that you send. My intention is to place more light into our troubled world, rather than joining the noise. Thank you for listening and being part of the light.

As always, sending lots of love to you!!