Cape Aloe, Bitter Aloe, Red Aloe, Cape Aloe, Alligator Jaw Aloe

Aloe ferox

Physical Characteristics

Aloe ferox is an evergreen Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft) by 2 m (6ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Birds, bees. The plant is not self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

South Africa - Cape Province.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Edible Uses: Tea The gel from the leaves has been used in South Africa to make a jam that tastes like watermelon jam[ 299 ]. It is also gaining importance as a refreshing and nutritive ingredient in food and drinks[ 299 ]. Dry leaves are harvested and crushed, after which a decoction is used to make a herbal tea[ 299 ]. The flowers are sucked for their sweet nectar[ 301 ].

Medicinal Uses

Antiarthritic Poultice Purgative Refrigerant Skin In southern Africa the thickened, red leaf exudate, called 'Cape aloe', is used as a purgative in human and veterinary medicine and fresh exudate is applied in cases of ophthalmia and syphilis[ 295 , 299 ]. It is also used in the treatment of arthritis[ 295 ]. The gel from the core of the leaves has a similar use as the gel from the leaves of Aloe vera, and is used to treat skin afflictions (burns, wounds, abrasions, irritations), and is applied as a poultice on contusions or as a general refrigerant[ 299 ]. It is furthermore used as a hair wash to promote hair growth and against dandruff[ 299 ]. The distinctive constituents in Aloe leaves are phenolic compounds, including chromone, anthraquinone or anthrone derivatives. Some of the compounds are found in many species, whereas others occur in only a few[ 299 ].

Known Hazards

The sap of Aloe species contains anthraquinones. These compounds have several beneficial medicinal actions, particularly as a laxative, and many species of Aloe are thus employed in traditional medicine. Whilst safe in small doses and for short periods of time, anthraquinones do have potential problems if used in excess. These include congestion and irritation of the pelvic organs[ 299 ]. Long term use of anthraquinone laxatives may also play a role in development of colorectal cancer as they have genotoxic potential, and tumorigenic potential[ 299 ].