Review on Medicinal Value of Aloe Vera in Veterinary Practice

Gebremedhin Yohannes*

Received: June 18, 2018;   Published: June 22, 2018

DOI: 10.26717/BJSTR.2018.06.001287

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Abstract

Aloe vera is a plant with height of almost 60-100cm containing very short stem or stem-less long leaves and belongs to the family Asphodelaceae. The aloe vera or succulent has a long history of being used for medicinal purposes, dating back to ancient Egypt. Aloe species are widely distributed in the African and the eastern European continents, and are spread almost throughout the world. The plant leaves contains numerous vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids, natural sugars and other bioactive compounds with emollient, purgative, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifungal, antiseptic and cosmetic values for health care. The leaves of Aloe barbadensis are the source of two different products with medicinal properties: a yellow latex-like juice obtained from the cells just beneath the epidermis of the leaves with laxative properties and the parenchyma, the inner part of the leaves consisting of a mucilaginous gel. Aloe vera leaves are typically subjected to a series of processing techniques including: Reception of raw material, Filtration, Hot processing and flash cooling, Cold processing, Addition of preservatives and stabilizers and Storage. Many biological properties such as anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, peptic ulcers, antitumor, anticancer properties, activity effects on the Immune System, adverse reactions, Laxative effects, wound healing, antiseptic, anti- stress, are contributed by inner gel of the leaves. A. Vera has various health benefits in animals. The A. Vera as the Wonder plant” is multiple from being an antiseptic, anti-microbial, anti-ulcer, anti-inflammatory agent, helps in relieving tumor and diabetes. A. Vera has been used externally to treat various skin conditions such as cuts and burns. It is attributed to its minimal side effects, highly effective treatment. However, further study guided by research on therapeutic and medicinal uses of aloe vera are required in order to advance knowledge and to reduce adverse effects.

Keywords: Aleo Vera; Medicinal Properties; Health Benefits; Adverse Effects

Abstract| Introduction| Historical Background of Aloe Vera| Handling and Processing| Health Benefits of Aloe Vera| Side Effects of Aloe Vera| Conclusion and Recommendations| References|