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Aloe Vera

Reviewed by medical experts · For informational purposes only

Aloe Vera

Introductory summary

Aloe Vera known as Kumari or Ghritakumari in Ayurveda is a succulent plant widely used for metabolic and reproductive disorders. The dried juice of the leaves is specifically termed Kanyasara. According to the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India Kanyasara possesses Pungent taste and Hot potency making it a powerful digestive and purgative agent known as Bhedi. It effectively eliminates vitiated Pitta and Kapha. Clinical indications include the treatment of liver disorders or Yakridvikara abdominal tumors known as Gulma and severe constipation. It is a potent emmenagogue used to treat amenorrhea and painful menstruation known as Kashtartava. Aloe is also a key ingredient in fermented tonics like Kumaryasava and is extensively used in Rasa Shastra to purify minerals. Caution is advised during pregnancy due to its uterus stimulating properties.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a succulent plant widely used in Ayurveda for treating abdominal disorders, liver issues, and menstrual irregularities. In the classical texts, the dried juice of the leaves is specifically termed Kanyasara, while the fresh plant is often called Kumari. It is a key ingredient in many fermented tonics (Asavas) and is extensively used to purify minerals in Ayurvedic alchemy (Rasa Shastra).

1. Name of the Herb

  • Common Name: Aloe Vera.
  • Scientific Name: Aloe barbadensis Mill. (Synonyms: Aloe vera Tourn. ex Linn, Aloe indica Royle).
  • Sanskrit Names: Kanyasara (specifically the dried juice), Kumari, Ghritakumari.
  • Other Names: Elio (dried juice), Musabbar (Arabic/Unani).

2. Brief Description

Aloe Vera is a shrub planted in many Indian gardens and found growing throughout the country. In Ayurveda, it is highly valued not just as a standalone remedy but as a processing agent. It is used to purify and incinerate metals (like iron and copper) and gems (like pearls) to make them safe for human consumption in the form of Bhasmas. The dried juice (Kanyasara) is a potent therapeutic agent used for specific metabolic and reproductive conditions.

3. Source / Part Used

  • Plant Source: Herbal / Plant-based.
  • Part Used:
    • Dried Juice of leaves (known as Kanyasara).
    • Fresh Leaf/Pulp (known as Kumari or Kanya) is used in formulations and purification processes.

4. Ayurvedic Properties

According to the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, the properties of Kanyasara (Dried Aloe Juice) are:

  • Rasa (Taste): Katu (Pungent).
  • Guna (Qualities): Ushna (Hot).
  • Virya (Potency): Ushna (Hot).
  • Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Katu (Pungent).
  • Dosha Effect: It eliminates Pitta (Pittanirharana) but due to its hot potency, it balances Vata and Kapha while expelling accumulated Pitta through purgation.

5. Key Benefits

6. Uses / Indications

Aloe Vera (as Kanyasara or in formulations like Kumaryasava) is indicated for:

7. How It Works

  • Purgative Action (Bhedana): The dried juice has a penetrating and purgative quality that breaks down fecal matter and toxins (Ama) and expels them, which helps in abdominal enlargement and constipation.
  • Emmenagogue Action: Its hot potency (Ushna Virya) stimulates the uterus and promotes menstrual flow, addressing blockages in the reproductive channels.
  • Processing Agent: In Rasa Shastra, Aloe vera juice (Kumari Svarasa) is used to triturate metals like Copper and Zinc. This process (Bhavana) helps reduce the particle size and toxicity of the metals, making them bio-assimilable.

8. Dosage

  • Powder (Dried Juice/Kanyasara): 125 mg to 500 mg.
  • Formulations: It is a key ingredient in Kumaryasava (12 to 24 ml) and Rajahpravartini Vati.

9. Safety Information

  • Aloe Vera is considered safe when used in recommended dosages and appropriate formulations.
  • It is a standard ingredient in pediatric medicines like Kumarakalyana Rasa, used for fever and emaciation in children.

10. Side Effects

11. Precautions

  • Pregnancy: Because it is Rajahpravartaka (promotes menstruation) and Ushna (Hot), it should be avoided during pregnancy to prevent the risk of miscarriage.
  • Bleeding Disorders: Caution is advised in cases of bleeding disorders or menorrhagia (excessive bleeding).
  • Medical Condition: Always consult an Ayurvedic physician, especially when using the dried juice (Kanyasara), as it is potent.

12. Storage Instructions

  • Store dried powder in a cool, dry place in an air-tight container to prevent it from absorbing moisture.
  • Fermented preparations like Kumaryasava can be kept indefinitely in well-stoppered bottles.

13. References

14. FAQs

Q: Can Aloe Vera be taken daily?

A: Fresh gel is often used daily for general wellness, but the dried juice (Kanyasara) described in the pharmacopoeia is a potent medicine (dose 125-500 mg) used for specific conditions like constipation or amenorrhea and should be taken under guidance.

Q: When should it be taken?

A: As a medicine for digestive or menstrual issues, it is typically taken twice a day or as directed by a physician.

Q: Can it be taken with milk/water?

A: Yes, depending on the formulation. However, Kumaryasava (a fermented Aloe tonic) is a liquid taken directly, usually after food.

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