Symbolism, colours and shapes Aloe sap is particularly valued as an additive in cosmetics and skincare products. According to legend, Cleopatra and Nefertiti already used it for its beneficial effects.

The plant’s name comes from the Arabic word ‘alloeh’, which means ‘shiny, beautiful’. The species name ‘vera’, on the other hand, comes from Latin and means ‘true’. Aloe is also a symbol of patience in the Arabic-speaking world, because even though it grows slowly, it impresses with its long life and thus becomes a true member of the family. With its powerful and robust exterior, it is an easy-care housemate.

Aloe has thick blue-green leaves that reach a length of up to 50 cm and, with their serrated edges, spring from the centre of the plant like rosettes. The plant can reach a height of up to one metre and is characterised by its air-purifying effect and extraordinary resilience. It stores moisture and nutrients in its leaves to survive even during dry growing seasons. Under the right conditions, it forms inflorescences after three years at the earliest. Origin Aloe is a succulent species of the Xanthorrhoeaceae family and is native to the Arabian Peninsula.

The approximately 300 known species of the desert plant have specialised in survival even under extreme climatic conditions. The more than 75 active substances it produces in its leaves help it in this struggle for survival. When a leaf is damaged, the wound is immediately sealed with a viscous juice to minimise moisture loss.

The active ingredients in aloe, however, also have healing properties for humans, which is why this plant was already a symbol of immortality in ancient Egypt. The first description of the plant in Europe dates back to 1753. Today, aloe is also widespread around the Mediterranean, in Indonesia, Mexico and the Caribbean.