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Page 46
| Aloe Vera (Aloe vera) |
| Once exotic, aloe vera has become ubiquitous. The spiny succulent is a popular house plant and its healing gel is a highly praised treatment for burns, sunburn, abrasions, cuts, wounds, scrapes and insect bites. Aloe vera juice is a popular liquid supplement, and capsules are available as well. Used internally, aloe vera can have a harsh Laxative effect unless the bitter rind is removed; the slippery gel from inside the leaf is not cathartic. |
| Some have promoted aloe vera as a cure-all, claiming spectacular results in almost every illness, including arthritis. Because there are many aloe preparations made by different manufacturing processes, some diluted and others concentrated, the marketplace can be confusing. But whether they apply it as a lotion or take it internally, thousands of users claim it has brought them relief from arthritis. In the Aloe Vera Handbook, Max B. Skousen wrote, "Most people who report some relief from arthritic symptoms say they drink one or two tablespoons at a time, two to four times a day, in juice or water." Although some reported immediate relief, most experienced improvement within two months. |
| Arnica (Arnica montana) |
| Arnica is a small alpine plant with yellow blossoms. The flower heads, made into tea, tincture or massage |
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