Ancient Use of Aloe
The Aloe plant has long been lauded for its healing properties. Ancient Egyptians, Sumerians, and other civilizations used this plant of the lily family in topical applications as well as internal remedies. Many famous people used Aloe as part of their healing or beauty regimens.
The Aloe vera plant is a succulent native to Africa. Its name means “true aloe” and it is one of several hundred species of the Aloe plant. Aloe vera is the most commonly used Aloe plant for healing purposes. It may be used internally or externally by humans.
Many ancient civilizations used Aloe on a regular basis. The Sumerians, Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, Indians, Chinese, and more have all used Aloe for its many healing properties. They used Aloe vera as a laxative, purgative, burn treatment, food source, wrinkle treatment, and in burial preparation. It was also used as a cure for warts and other skin issues, and to cure acne. The Egyptians might have used it in their embalming process. People of India used the gel of the plant to sustain themselves while in the desert. Directions for use appear in Sumerian tablets, Egyptian scrolls, and many other ancient documents.
Famous people all though out history found Aloe to be a useful remedy. Alexander the Great used it to heal his soldiers, and even conquered a people just so he could take control of the Aloe plants located in their lands. Cleopatra used it as a regular part of her beauty regimen as she believed it helped her skin appear youthful and fresh. Nefertiti also used this skincare plan. This habit might have been a famous secret among Egyptian women. Even the Bible mentions Aloe in several places. The most notable reference in the Bible discusses Jesus’ burial preparations which involved mixing Aloe and myrrh. The Jews may have adopted this practice on their trek through Egypt, as it is similar to that of the Egyptians’.
One thing is for certain: the Aloe vera plant has a long and positive history. Its diverse qualities made it a popular remedy. Aloe’s beneficial properties are well-established and used to this day. People such as Cleopatra, Alexander the Great, and Nefertiti used Aloe for its various healing properties. Additionally, it was well-known for its practical use in burials.
Article by Rebeca MacLary