The term Savila is the widely used Spanish name for the plant scientifically known as Aloe vera, a perennial succulent. This plant has a history of use spanning thousands of years, utilized by ancient civilizations like the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans for healing and wellness. The recognition of its medicinal value has persisted through centuries, making it one of the most studied botanical remedies available today.
The Unique Biology of the Savila Plant
Aloe vera is classified as a xerophyte, a succulent plant naturally adapted to thrive in arid and semi-arid climates, where it conserves water in its thick, fleshy leaves. The leaf structure is composed of three distinct layers, each contributing different compounds. The outermost layer is the tough, protective green rind, or cuticle, which minimizes water loss.
Just beneath the rind is the middle layer, which contains a bitter, yellowish sap known as aloe latex. This latex is stored in specialized vascular bundles and provides a protective function for the plant. The innermost portion is the clear, mucilaginous gel, which constitutes approximately 99% water and is the part most commonly used for topical applications.
Key Compounds Behind the Healing Properties
The therapeutic actions of Aloe vera are attributed to over 75 active constituents found within the leaf. The inner gel is rich in complex carbohydrates called polysaccharides, most notably acemannan. Acemannan is responsible for the gel’s moisturizing, hydrating, and anti-inflammatory properties.
The gel also provides antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, and E, which help protect cells from damage. Additionally, the gel contains enzymes, minerals, and 20 of the 22 human-required amino acids. Separately, the bitter yellow latex layer contains anthraquinone glycosides, such as aloin, which are potent compounds with a strong laxative effect.
Practical Applications and Traditional Uses
The clear gel harvested from the Aloe vera leaf is recognized for its soothing effects when applied externally to the skin. It provides relief from minor burns, including sunburn, due to its cooling and moisturizing capabilities. The gel’s glycoproteins and polysaccharides accelerate the wound healing process and reduce inflammation and pain.
For dermatological issues, the gel helps with conditions like acne and psoriasis by reducing redness and scaling. Its humectant nature draws moisture from the environment, making it an effective moisturizer for dry or irritated skin. When consumed orally, purified Aloe vera juice supports digestive health and relieves occasional heartburn.
The mild anti-inflammatory effects of the polysaccharides benefit the gastrointestinal tract, soothing irritation in the stomach and intestines. Historically, the latex was used as a powerful laxative due to the anthraquinones, but this practice is discouraged due to safety concerns. Modern internal products are processed to remove the latex, ensuring a low concentration of aloin, limited to less than 10 parts per million (ppm) in oral products.
Safe Home Preparation and Usage Guidelines
Harvesting the gel requires careful separation from the latex. Begin by cutting a mature outer leaf close to the base, then immediately stand the cut end upright in a cup for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the bitter, yellow latex to fully drain out of the leaf.
After the latex has drained, wash the leaf and use a knife to trim away the serrated edges and the outer green rind. Scoop out the clear inner gel, ensuring no remnants of latex or rind remain attached. If the gel is intended for internal consumption, rinse it thoroughly to remove any final traces of aloin. Always perform a patch test before widespread topical application to check for sensitivity.