When a particular Trinidadian calypsonian decided to call himself “Sugar Aloes”, he proved that he could give a very good joke.  For, there is nothing “sugary” about the Aloe Vera (hereafter just plain ole “aloe”).   It’s often referred to as the “miracle plant”. And, with good reason. It’s a miracle that any one plant could pack such great bitterness!

Okay...fine. That's not it. It’s called the “miracle plant” because it's considered so very good for us humans- capable of "fixing" or hindering so many things which can go wrong with our bodies. In the Caribbean, and no doubt other parts of the world, the aloe plant boasts a massive fan club. Members of Club Aloe will go to their graves thinking the plant great for just about everything. I’ve lost count of the number of times an aloe fan has assured me that the aloe plant is the right component for the most nutritious of juices- good for my immune and digestive systems.

And, I speak from personal experiences and the experiences of many villagers who grew up knowing to RUN… RUN for the hills (or up the nearest tree in the flat islands) when parents, with a piece of aloe leaf hidden behind their backs, started acting all nicey-nicey. My first “brush” with Aloe Vera Law came many moons ago when mothers all around me took to endorsing the plant as the preferred choice of weaning mothers. Babies would get curious with the enamel thing that popped up in their gum. And mothers would then head, with stern eyes that have seen things, for the nearest aloe plant.

You would have seen all those hair products eager to lay claim to having a bit of aloe in them.  Well, grandparents have long preached: “aloes good for the scalp and hair”.  Who’s a good cactusy-looking plant for arthritis, diabetes, healing burns, wounds and reducing the risk of cuts and wounds becoming infected? You are aloe plant…you are.

“Gargle it. It’s good for sore throat,” you might have heard at one point or another. “Man, boil it in ah pan and breathe in de vapor. It good good for asthma…!"  And someone might have called once (a really long time ago) to let you know that their aunt’s neighbour’s friend just told her that it’s just the thing for constipation. And you might have also been told, many times over: “don’t forget de skin. Dab it on your skin. It good for clearing up de skin!”

Indeed, you might have had that friend who once advised: “you should drink it often, man. Cut the leaf, remove the gel inside, then just blend the gel with some water, strain it and drink it”. This would have been right about the time you knew people thought you a glutton for punishment. But, to your relief, some kind soul, reminiscent of a just as kind parent,  would have stepped in to suggest you blend the gel with some orange juice.  Only then, did you remove the camouflage rock suit and made your way inside for a Good Dose of the miracle plant that is ALOE VERA.

Disclaimer:

The contents of this page are meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. Statements published here ought not to be taken as expert medical advice designed to treat/cure any diseases or health related conditions. Please talk to your doctor or any qualified healthcare professional if you need medical advice (Believe me, WE at RE:BELLE WOULD!)