What is Aloe Vera?
aloe ver·a

A species of aloe (Aloe vera) native to the Mediterranean region. Usually refers to the mucilaginous juice or gel obtained from the leaves of this plant, widely used in cosmetic and pharmaceutical preparations for its soothing and healing properties.

Another substance from the same plant, aloe vera latex, is taken from specialized cells along the inner leaf skin (called the pericyclic tubules). The latex is extracted as a liquid, then dried into a yellow powder. Because it's such a potent laxative, the latex is not usually used alone but combined with gentler herbs, such as cascara sagrada. Germany's Commission E approves of using small amounts of aloe vera latex to relieve constipation, but only for short-term use.