Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera, “Wan Hang Jorakae” in Thai (ว่านหางจระเข้), is an essential plant in traditional Thai medicine. Its fleshy leaves contain a clear, gelatinous gel rich in active nutrients. When applied topically, it moisturizes and soothes, relieves mild burns, reduces inflammation and treats skin conditions. It is very popular in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical and food industries

Thailand benefits from the production of top quality Aloe Vera in most of Thailand. However, we particularly appreciate Aloe Vera from the provinces of Prachuap Khiri Khan and Surat Thani where it is mainly cultivated sustainably, guaranteeing remarkable quality.

Benefits and Uses

Aloe vera is a plant widely used in traditional medicine for its multiple virtues.

Moisturizing

Helps moisturize, revitalize, heal and soothe dry or irritated skin.

soothing

Effectively relieves mild burns, sunburns, and skin irritations.

Capillary

Helps to strengthen and moisturize hair, and thus prevent breakage and promote hair growth.

Digestive

Helps relieve symptoms of constipation, ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome.

immunostimulant

May help boost the immune system, aid digestion, and relieve intestinal gas.

Historical Origins

Aloe vera is native to North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It was already used by the Egyptians at the time of the Pharaohs. It was introduced to Asia around 2,000 years ago. Since then, it has become an essential plant in traditional medicine in many Asian countries, such as Thailand, China, India and Japan.

The use of Aloe Vera in Thailand dates back centuries and it's hard to say exactly who discovered it first. However, the plant has been an unavoidable component of traditional Thai medicine for over 1,500 years. Cited in numerous writings, it is highlighted in particular in the “Samut Khoi Khob Khun Chang” (สมุทรค้อยขอบคุณช้าง) dating from the Sukhothai period (13 century): This ancient book, also known as the “Elephant Seal Medicine Treatise,” introduces medicinal plants, remedies, and healing techniques.

Thai herbalists have developed a great deal of expertise in its use. Thai villagers have also used it for generations to treat burns, cuts, and skin infections, as well as to promote digestion and ease aches and pains.

SOURCES

Aloe vera belongs to the Asphodelaceae family and grows in plants that can reach 60cm in height. It is grown in many parts of Thailand, but some areas are considered more suitable for growing it due to their climate and soil.

We particularly appreciate producers in the provinces of Prachuap Khiri Khan and Surat Thani where Aloe Vera is often grown sustainably, guaranteeing remarkable quality.

Located in southern Thailand, the province of Prachuap Khiri Khan is renowned for producing one of the best Aloe Vera in the country. This region has a hot and humid tropical climate, which favors the growth of the plant. Moreover, the quality of the land in this region is excellent.

Also located in southern Thailand, Surat Thani Province is another region known for growing Aloe Vera. It is known for its extensive plantations, which are often cultivated in a responsible manner.

Thai producers are often local farmers who have learned to grow the plant in a traditional way and how to make the most of it for their communities.

PRODUCTION

For its cosmetic use, Aloe Vera is generally used as a powdered extract. This is obtained by following a process of extracting and drying the Aloe vera pulp:

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  • Harvest: Aloe Vera leaves are harvested by hand when they have reached maturity. They are cut at the base and transported quickly to prevent them from drying out.‍‍

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  • ‍Wash: The leaves are washed thoroughly to remove all dirt and impurities.
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  • ‍Thread: The leaves are then threaded to remove the outer skin and reveal the gelatinous pulp inside.
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  • Extraction: The pulp is separated from the outer shell of the leaf using a filtration technique, usually using sieves or centrifuges
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  • ‍Stabilization: The pulp is often stabilized to preserve its nutrients and beneficial properties. This can be achieved by adding natural preservatives, such as vitamin C or vitamin E, to prevent oxidation.
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  • Dehydration: The stabilized pulp is then dehydrated to remove the water, either by freeze-drying (freezing under vacuum) or by spraying (atomization).
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  • Grinding and sieving: The dehydrated pulp is reduced to fine powder using a grinder or mill. The powder is then sieved to remove any lumps or unwanted particles.
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  • Packaging: Finally, the powder is packaged in appropriate containers, such as moisture-proof bags or jars, to ensure its preservation and to allow its distribution.

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COMPOSITION

Aloe vera contains no less than 200 compounds with multiple benefits. Its chemical composition may vary depending on several factors, such as plant variety, cultivation conditions, and extraction methods:

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  • Water: Water makes up about 99% of its composition.
  • Polysaccharides: These sweet compounds, such as acemannan, are complex carbohydrates. They play an important role in the hydrating and soothing properties of Aloe Vera. They are also responsible for its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties.
  • Enzymes: Digestive enzymes such as amylase and lipase that help with digestion and promote better absorption of nutrients.
  • Amino acids: Building blocks of proteins, these essential and non-essential amino acids include lysine, methionine, and valine.
  • Vitamins: Rich in vitamins, it contains vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin E, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3 and vitamin B6. They are essential for the optimal functioning of the body and contribute to the health of the skin and the immune system.
  • Minerals: Calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, and potassium. These minerals are important for maintaining electrolyte balance, supporting cellular function, and promoting good bone health.
  • Antioxidants: Flavonoids and catechins, which help neutralize free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage.