PRODUCTION, COMPOSITION AND USES OF ALOE VERA (L.) BURM F.

Janet O. Alegbejo

Department of Paediatrics

Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Shika, Zaria, Nigeria.

ABSTRACT

Aloe vera (L.) or Indian aloe is an ancient crop and is cultivated as a cash crop. The dried exudate contains many chemical compounds which when activated have several medicinal uses.The American continent supplies about 60% to the world market, while the main producers are Mexico, Dominican Republic and Venezuela. Asia (China and Thailand) and Australia produce the remainder of the internationally traded product. Although it has many uses, it may also have possible side effects such as production of allergic reactions when applied on the skin. Future research needs are also discussed.