Presence of Aloe Vera in History – Know from 10 Interesting Records
Aloe vera has a long history and some very interesting mentions in the historical records of various countries. From queens and emperors to physicians and traders, this medicinal plant was known to significant number of people around the world. This was the reason that this plant which originated in Africa traveled to different corners of the world, covering destinations like Egypt, Greece, India, Mesopotamia and many more. Have a look at the top 10 mentions of aloe vera and its properties in the historical records.
 Alexander Carried Aloe to Battlefield
One of the greatest warriors of the history, Alexander recognized the wound healing capability of aloe vera plant. It was on his direction that aloe vera was carried to the battlefields in order to treat the wounded soldiers. It is also believed that Aristotle who mentored Alexander advised the emperor to attack the Island of Socotra to take the custody of huge aloe vera plantations grown there.
 Cultivated by King Solomon
King Solomon is counted among the first few famous people to recognize the benefits of aloe vera plant. As per the records, aloe vera was used in a number of ways during the king’s wedding. Highly impressed by the plant, Solomon is believed to have grown aloe vera for his personal usage.
 Beauty Secret of Egyptian Queens
A number of historical records point out the use of aloe vera by two Egyptian queens, Cleopatra and Nefertiti. These queens are known to be the most beautiful women of their respective eras. It is believed that they used aloe vera as a part of their regular beauty treatments. Inspired by such facts, aloe vera is used as an ingredient in numerous skin and beauty care products.
 Religious Symbol in Egypt and Mesopotamia
People who lived in Egypt and Mesopotamia centuries ago treated aloe vera as a religious symbol. Interestingly, the plant was believed to keep away the evil sprits from houses. This was the reason that drawings of aloe vera plant or the plant in real was placed near the main entrance of the house. The ancient Egyptians would also draw the aloe vera drawings on temple walls.
 Dioscordes Recorded Use of Aloe Vera Juice
A famous pharmacologist who served the ancient Roman Empire, Dioscordes was among the first people to record the medicinal properties of aloe vera. In fact, he highlighted many benefits of drinking aloe vera juice. As per the records of Dioscordes, aloe vera juice is capable of fighting boils and bruises. He also recommended the juice for cleaning toxins from stomach.
 Roman Physicians Added to the Aloe Vera Records
Following Dioscordes, a number of Roman physicians recorded various medicinal uses of aloe vera plant. The most important of these records belong to Pliny the Elder who recommended the use of this plant in treating sores. He also recorded that aloe vera plant can be used to keep a check on perspiration. Galen and Antyllus were among other physicians who mentioned many more purposes for which the plant is useful.
 Expeditions of Columbus and Aloe Vera
Christopher Columbus is known to carry aloe vera during his long journeys that required him and his sailors to spend numerous days traveling through oceans. Aloe vera was mentioned among the four important food ingredients by Columbus, the other three being wheat, grapes and olive. He mentioned that aloe vera has great medicinal properties that can cure a number of medical problems during long journeys.
 Traded by Arabs
The Arab traders are known to have traded aloe vera plants to India, Persia and other parts of western Asia. These traders are credited with the discovery of method to separate the inner gel of aloe vera from the external rind. It is interesting to know that the Arab traders called aloe vera the Desert Lily. They were among the first few people to use aloe vera for external as well as internal treatments.
 Mention in Chinese Materia Medicas
The Materia Medicas of China recorded the medicinal uses of aloe vera in the 7th century. Lu-hui was the name given to the plant by the Chinese people. As per these records, the people from China confirmed the use of aloe vera for treating various skin conditions. In addition, they also mentioned the use of aloe vera in the treatment of fever and sinus.
 Spain Introduced Aloe to the New World
It was during the 15th century that numerous marine expeditions were carried out by Spain and other countries. During these expeditions, aloe vera was among many things that Spanish people took to the newly found places. Many records indicate that Spain introduced the plant to many parts of what was called the New World. Central America and various present day states of America discovered the uses of the plant with the help of Spaniards.
There are many more historical records that confirm the use of aloe vera by people in almost all parts of the world. These records are sufficient to prove the growing importance of aloe vera in the modern world.
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