ALOE

Aloe ferox

The medicinal properties of the various species of aloe have been exploited for centuries. The ancient Greeks and Romans considered aloe to be a valuable tonic and purgative. The purgative quality of dried aloe gel is still valued today in herbal medicine, but the plant is probably more familiar now as the source of a soothing and effective skin lotion. The Aloe remedy was proved by Buchner in 1821 and by the homeopath Dr. Helbig in 1833, and is used today mainly for digestive complaints, particularly diarrhea.

REMEDY PROFILE

Homeopaths consider Aloe when the psychological traits exhibited include weariness, a reluctance to work, and great irritability, especially in cloudy weather. Dissatisfaction and anger are commonly directed internally, possibly producing constipation. Moreover, the person may dream about stools or involuntary soiling. Beer is a typical craving, despite the fact that it usually exacerbates any physical symptoms. Aloe is most frequently prescribed for disorders of the large intestine. It may be taken for congestion in the pelvic organs and the head, and is also thought to counter fatigue, hemorrhoids, and the possible consequences of a sedentary lifestyle, particularly in the elderly.

Diarrhea
SYMPTOMS A sudden urge to pass stools, which is at its strongest particularly early in the morning, possibly forcing an early rise from bed at around 5 a.m. Accompanied by hot, explosive gas, the stools may contain mucus or jellylike lumps. They may be passed involuntarily, giving rise to a feeling of insecurity in the rectum (this may also be an indication of colitis). Diarrhea may alternate with constipation. It is marked by incomplete, unsatisfactory stools and heavy
pressure in the lower abdominal area. Symptoms generally tend to be worse prior to menstruation, or may primarily affect the elderly or those with sedentary habits.

Hemorrhoids
SYMPTOMS Hemorrhoids that resemble small bunches of grapes and protrude from the anus. They are typically accompanied by soreness and tenderness. There may be a painful, burning sensation in the rectum and anus, and flatulent diarrhea.

Hepatitis
SYMPTOMS A sensation of congestion and heat in the liver. There may be rumbling and distention in the abdomen, causing it to feel full, heavy, bloated, and hot. An accumulation of gas may accompany this feeling of distention, as well as strain and tension that is felt in the area between the pubic bone and the coccyx.

Headaches
SYMPTOMS Severe, painful headaches that seem to trigger a sensation of congestion in the face
and in the head. These headaches frequently appear to alternate with the occurrence of hemorrhoids or diarrhea, or may be associated with pain in the lower back.

S O U R C E D E TA I L S
O R I G I N
Native to southern Africa, particularly the northern, eastern, and western Capes, but now cultivated throughout the world. Found in fertile, well-drained areas with sandy soil and direct sunlight.
B A C K G R O U N D
Traditional y, aloe gel has been used as a laxative and purgative. Various research trials
conducted between 1979 and 1995 found that extracts from the plant boost immune- system functioning, and may even help to treat cancer and irritable bowel syndrome.
P R E PA R AT I O N
The juice is extracted from the plant and dried to make a hard resin, which is then powdered and steeped in alcohol. The mixture is left to macerate for at least five days, after which it is filtered, and then repeatedly diluted and succussed.
C O M M O N N A M E S

Aloe, Cape aloe.