History

Aloe was used in Antiquity by several civilisations. The Egyptians used the juice of the Aloe to embalm their mummies. The medicinal effects of the plant have been known for a long time and sailors used the Aloe (juice and leaf) to sooth their sunburnt skin.

Historical reference books indicate that the Aloe was cultivated by the Romans as a decorative pot plant. Aloes have always been very popular in Europe, and images of Aloes can be found in the well-known Moninckx atlases, which date back to the 17th century.

Today, Aloes are still an essential ingredient in many cosmetic products and laxatives. Aloe Vera is the most popular species, but other species have the same properties.

These plants are now are used as potted plants in the home, thanks to their austere shapes and colours. They do fine in shady places and require minimum care and maintenance.