A Home Grown First-Aid Kit!

(Page 3 of 3)

May/June 1979
By the Mother Earth News editors 
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By now you're probably pretty much overwhelmed by the versatility of this plant's gel and derivatives, but-amazingly enough Aloe vera produces still another medicinal substance. We peels of mature leaves contain a yellowgreen sap that—like the liniment deeper inside—has all sorts of healthful uses. The colored jute is a digestive aid that's often taken as a laxative ... and occasionally as a cure for intestinal parasites. The fluid also stimulates the circulation and can help induce menstruation.

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But, let me warn you ... this liquid is potent! Don't let it get mixed in with your transparent gel. And don't consider using the sap if you are menstruating, pregnant, or have a tendency to get hemorrhoids. (The potion also tastes incredibly bitter. In fact, some Jamaican mothers will dab a bit on their breasts when they want to—instantly—wean their children.)

All in all, the Aloe vera on my windowsill can treat (or is reputed to help heal) arthritis, bleeding, inflammation, insect bites, sunburn, skin blemishes, diaper rash, worms, constipation, indigestion, X-ray and radiation burns ... and more. Maybe, instead of calling this plant "a home—grown first-aid kit", I should have said ...

When you grow an Aloe vera, you grow an entire medicine chest

EDITOR'S NOTE: If you can't find Aloe vera In your local nurseries, you might write to one of the following herb dealers. Plant prices will vary with size, and shipping costs with distance, so please send for a catalog first (and do remember to specify Dept. TMEN In all company addresses): Gurney Seed & Nursery Co., Yankton, South Dakota 57088 (free) ... Taylor's Garden, Inc., 1535 Lone Oak Road, Vista, California 92083 (50¢) . . . Timber Ridge Greenhouse, Rt. 1, New Straitsville, Ohio 43766 (35¢) ... Well-Sweep Herb Farm, 317 Mt. Bethel Road, Port Murray, New Jersey 07865 (50¢) ... Yankee Peddler Herb Farm, Rt. 4, Box 76, Highway 36 North, Brenham, Texas 77833 ($1.00).

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