The Aloe Vera Plant is easy to grow, medicinal, non-toxic and looks fantastic.

If you lack a green thumb but want to try your hand at growing some sort of plant then the succulent aloe vera might be a perfect choice.

The aloe vera plant is versatile, low maintenance, easy to propagate, and aesthetically pleasing – it also has unmatched medicinal properties.

All About the Aloe Vera Plant

The aloe vera plant has a lot going for it. It is also a fascinating plant with a long history.

Here are a few facts about aloe vera:

• Native to Africa
• Known by a variety of names such s Aloe Ferox Mill, Aloe Vera Officinalis Elles, and Aloe Barbadensis Miller
• Aloe vera plants live over 200 years with ease.
• The gel-like substance found within the aloe vera is rich in polysaccharides and enzymes that help to improve the body’s immune function. They are the same compounds found in honey, tree gums, and milk.
• Throughout history, aloe vera has been valued by the Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, Arab traders, and Spanish.
• An aloe vera plant can grow to a height of six feet tall

Benefits of the Aloe Vera Plant

Aloe vera plants are valued by the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries to the tune of $13 billion dollars annually.

Each one of the plant’s thick, pointed, fleshy leaves measures about 12 to 19 inches long is filled with a watery gel-like substance. The gel is rich in bioactive compounds, vitamins, minerals antioxidants, and amino acids.

Quick Tip: Freeze Aloe Vera Gel in an icecube tray, for instant relief.

 

Aloe Vera for Skin Conditions, Wounds, and Burns

The gel substance contains polyphenols which have been found to inhibit the growth of bacteria that can cause infections. Throughout history, it has been used widely for its antibacterial antiseptic, and antiviral properties. Many people use it to heal skin conditions, wounds, and burns.

You’ll encounter many after-sun formulas that contain aloe vera because it soothes sunburn and helps the skin heal.

Aloe vera for burns from a fire or stove will also instantly soothe and ease the pain. It also appears to prevent infection in the burn and may reduce the likelihood of scaring.

Aloe Vera Mouthwash

In recent years, the mouthwash industry has taken notice of aloe vera.

When added to mouthwash, it reduces the build-up of plaque and bacteria in the mouth.

Aloe Vera may Reduce Constipation

Aloe contains aloin which is a natural laxative and can be used to ease constipation.

How to Grow Aloe Vera Indoors

Below are instructions on how to grow an aloe very plant indoors as a houseplant:

• Aloe vera is a tough plant that is remarkably self-sufficient. It stores moisture and nutrients within its spike-like leaves which lets the lant withstand long periods of drought with ease (which means if you forget to water the aloe vera, it won’t die). You can easily water the aloe vera once every month and it will thrive. Never overwater the aloe vera plant – it thrives best in dry conditions.
• Place the aloe vera in an area where it will receive full sunlight for optimum growth.
• The Aloe Vera plant requires very little nutrients. In fact, you can feed the aloe vera once per year in the spring and it will still thrive. Use a general-purpose houseplant fertilizer for best results.
• Propagating the aloe vera is wonderfully simple. It takes three to four years for the plant to reach maturity. After maturity, small pups will appear around the base of the aloe vera plant. You can easily clip away the pups and place them in a pot with cactus potting soil. Give the pups to your family and friends as gifts!
• When transplanting the aloe vera, use a cactus potting mix. If you have to use regular potting soil then add perlite or grit to the soil to improve its drainage.
• Always make sure that the pot that you pick to plant the aloe vera in has plenty of drainage holes. The aloe does not like wet feet and will rot if it is kept in overly wet soil conditions.
• Pick a planting pot with drain holes that are wider at the base and somewhat bowl-shaped to prevent the plant from tipping over as it grows.

How to Grow Aloe Vera Outdoors

Aloe very has a very exotic appearance but it actually does very well outdoors. In areas with inclement winters, you can grow aloe vera in a pot outdoors and then bring the plant inside when the mercury starts to drop.

However, in areas with mild year-round temperatures, the aloe vera can be planted directly in the garden. If a frost is forecast, be sure to cover the aloe to protect it from the frost.

When planting aloe vera outdoors, pick a sunny location. The plant tolerates drought well which makes it a favorite in desert-like locations.

When the aloe vera goes for a long period of time without water, its leaves will start to shrivel and may become transparent as dehydration sets in.

However, once the plant is watered, it will recover quickly.

If the plant is repeatedly subjected to prolonged bouts of drought then it will eventually yellow and die.

Conclusions

Aloe vera plants are wonderful for first-time gardeners but they are also beloved by anyone who adores a true classic.

The majestic succulent looks fantastic and provides many health benefits which make it a popular choice indoors or outdoors.