One of the oldest plants in the world is Aloe Vera. It has other names like lily of the desert, elephants gall and burn plant. Studies have it that the plant dates way back to about 6, 000 years ago in Egypt. It was known as “the plant of immortality” and served as burial gifts for dead Pharaohs.

Uses of Aloe vera

So why Aloe Vera? Here, Jumia House breaks down a variety of benefit for growing Aloe Vera:

1. They serve as laxatives when one drinks them.
2. Known to heal diseases like asthma, diabetes, epilepsy etc.
3. Can be used  to block both UVA and UVB rays so they are found in most sunblocks.
4. A natural flavour that can be used in foods.
5. Serve as food preservatives .
6. Used as moisturizers for cosmetic products.

Cultivation of Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera cannot stand cold conditions. Thanks to our warm weather conditions in sandy loam soils, it is quite easy to cultivate this plant in Ghana. They are propagated with their suckers or rhizome cuttings in a pot or at your backyard.

Caring for Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera can be grown indoors and  outdoors as well. It prefers 8–10 hours of sunlight a day. However, be careful not put the plant directly under sunlight, otherwise it will wilt.

Giving adequate warmth, plant Aloe Vera in well draining soil. The plant’s nature does not require a lot of watering. Water the plant only when the soil is dry.Make sure there is a way of draining excess water if the plant is being cultivated in a pot.

Symptoms of malnourished Aloe Vera

• Leaves become flat when the plant has not received enough sunlight.
• When leaves are thin and curly it means the plants are not being watered;When leaves are brown, it is an indication of the plants being overly exposed to sunlight.
• If the plants are taking too long to germinate, they show that the soil is too alkaline or too much exposure to sunlight.