Aloes Cape

Aloes Cape is a palm-like succulent plant native to the Cape Region of South Africa. Aloes Cape is also often grown in cactus and rock gardens in areas having tropical or subtropical climates, and is particularly popular throughout southern California. Aloes Cape is also commonly known as Bitter Aloe, Red Aloe, and Tap Aloe. With leaves having sharp, reddish-brown spines along their perimeters, Aloes Cape can typically grow up to 10 feet in height, and have a spread of 3 feet in diameter. The genus "aloe" is derived from the Greek word for the dried juice of aloe leaves; and "ferox" can be translated as 'fierce' or 'war-like' referring to the spiny edged leaves of the plant. Plant members of the Aloe family are well-known for their natural high concentration of aloin, and have been the basis for many medicinal topical remedies throughout Europe for centuries. Sailors routinely used this herb on their skin upon injury by the elements, canvas sails, rope burns, and salt water exposure. Early missionaries also spread the healing benefits of Aloes in their work among many primitive communities. Aloes is even mentioned in the Bible for the embalming of the body of Jesus. Cape Aloes is one of the sources of the purgative "bitter aloes", a strong laxative (not to be confused with Aloe Vera, derived from the plant Aloe vera, and used as an emollient for many skin care products). In parts of South Africa, the bitter yellow juice of Aloes Cape found just below the skin of the leaf has been harvested for over 300 years. The hard, black resinous product is the portion commonly called Aloes Cape, and is used mainly for its laxative properties. Aloes Cape has also proven effective for arthritis support, being a primary ingredient in "Schwedenbitters" and "Lewensessens" which are found in many pharmacies throughout Europe.

(This herbal ingredient can be purchased from Viable Herbal Solutions in powdered and capsule form as part of our Single Herb sales program.)