Aloe Ferox
Facts About Aloe Ferox
There are hundreds of different species of aloe. Ferox (Aloe capensis) is native to South Africa, and has been harvested for centuries for its medicinal properties.
- It is also known as Bitter Aloe, Cape Aloe, Tap Aloe, and Red Aloe.
- Aloe Ferox has been used to aid in healing from conditions such as:
- Allergies and bites
- Constipation
- Arthritis
- Colic
- Headaches
- Heartburn
- Infections and abscesses
- Menstruation problems
- Ulcers
- Muscle cramps
- Diabetes
- Aloe has amazing abilities to soothe and heal many skin conditions like psoriasis, acne, rashes, lesions from chicken pox and other skin diseases, sunburns, radiation burns, and more. It can be used on all skin types - even the most sensitive, since it is natural and gentle.
- Aloe has also shown effectiveness in reducing the size and minimizing the appearance of scars. It can be used on acne scars, burn scars, stretch marks, and more.
-
Aloe is also used as a detoxifier, and just like with anything that has a “flushing out” effect on the body, it can cause diarrhea. When taking Aloe internally for any reason, start with small amounts and allow your body to adjust to the regimen slowly.
- Aloe sap can be used directly from the plant. The spiky leaves are cut or broken open to reveal the healing gel. The gel can be administered to the skin directly from the leaf, or it can be squeezed out into a sterile container. For internal use, a juice must be prepared. Consult a naturopath or other expert before trying to make your own aloe juice. There can be dangerous side effects from using aloe internally without proper direction so make sure you are using a reputable product or have educated yourself about how to safely use aloe juice.
- Pregnant or nursing women shouldn’t ingest the sap of any aloe plant. It is, however, perfectly harmless for expectant mothers to use externally for skin lesions or burns. Similarly, you shouldn’t feed aloe to children or pets, but it is safe for both when used topically.
- Aloe Ferox contains over 30 amino acids. Amino acids are essentially the building blocks of our bodies. They help our cells to grow properly and to repair themselves. Amino acids are also key ingredients in creating vital enzymes, antibodies, and hormones.
- The Ferox variety of aloe is a different species than Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis), which is a widely distributed cultivar and much more commonly known. Aloe Vera has many similar properties to Aloe Ferox. However, the levels of amino acids and healing enzymes are much higher in the Ferox variety. Aloe Vera plants are typically much smaller than Aloe Ferox plants and the sap inside them is clearer and thinner. Aloes Vera and Ferox are sometimes neighbors, though, in their native habitat. They grow side by side in some areas, creating a striking layered display.
- Aloe Ferox is an endangered plant due to over harvesting and illegal aloe trading.
- Ferox aloes can reach heights of ten feet when left to grow. They are succulents that store water in their fleshy leaves. They thrive in low-water environments, and easily grow from rock beds and in other harsh terrain. Conversely, they do well in wet environments, too. This species is highly adaptable and seems to be able to adjust to all kinds of climates.
- These towering beauties produce lovely red and orange flowers that shoot out several inches from the foliage. It can take years before the first bloom appears.