The Plant of Immortality

The Ancient Egyptians revered the aloe vera plant and considered it to be the “Plant of Immortality”.  Aloe vera was said to have been the glamorous Cleopatra's beauty secret, because of its anti-ageing effects on the skin.  Legend has it that the Pharaohs kept it as a palace plant, giving it a very high status.  Drawings of the aloe vera plant have even been found inscribed in the tombs of the Pharaohs. Supposedly, in 333 BC, Alexander the Great was persuaded by his mentor, Aristotle, to capture the Island of Socotra in the Indian Ocean for its aloe crops, needed to treat his wounded soldiers.

In more recent times aloe vera has come back into general use.  Ironically, it was the invention of the x-ray and the atom bomb that revived the focus on the plant.  Aloe vera heals internal tissues damaged by radiation exposure.

Aloe vera helps to reduce and eliminate scars, wrinkles, marks and blemishes.  It has anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties, which heal cuts, scrapes, and burns.  As a beauty supplement aloe vera soothes, softens, and moisturizes the skin.  Aloe lotion has been used to control acne and eczema. Aloe vera is also beneficial for gastrointestinal ailments, constipation, pain relief, and boosting the immune system.

After such a long and distinguished history, it seems the aloe vera plant still has many benefits to offer.


I've had the plant in my blipfoto for many years.  It's easy to look after and lives quite happily, with very little need for water, on a bright and draught-free window sill.