Aloe vera plant - Close-up

Aloe vera is a succulent plant species of the genus Aloe. It is an evergreen perennial, that originates from the Arabian Peninsula, but also grows wild in tropical, semi-tropical, and arid climates around the world. It is cultivated for commercial products, mainly as a topical treatment used over centuries. The species is considered attractive for decorative purposes, and is often used indoors as a potted plant. Aloe vera is a stemless or very short-stemmed plant growing to 60–100 centimetres (24–39 inches) tall, spreading by offsets. The leaves are thick and fleshy, green to grey-green, with some varieties showing white flecks on their upper and lower stem surfaces. The margin of the leaf is serrated and has small white teeth. However, it is considered an invasive species in many world regions. The leaves of Aloe vera contain significant amounts of the polysaccharide gel acemannan, which can be used for topical purposes. Aloe skin contains aloin which is toxic. Products made from Aloe vera usually only use the gel. There are many products containing aloe vera's acemannan, including skin lotions, cosmetics, ointments and gels for minor burns, skin abrasions, insect bites, and windburn. Aloe vera is one of the only plant sources of vitamin B-12. Oral ingestion of aloe vera extracts can be dangerous, because it causes reactions which are not yet fully understood. It is especially dangerous for pregnant women. Some people have allergic reactions, even when the aloe vera is applied only to the skin. Aloe vera plants are in a garden at Tehatta, West Bengal; India on 01/12/2024.