Aloe Vera Active Components

Vitamins

It contains vitamins A (beta-carotene), C and E, B12, folic acid and choline.

Enzymes

It contains 8 enzymes: aliiase, alkaline phosphatase, amylase, bradykinase, carboxypeptidase, catalase, cellulase, lipase, and peroxidase.

Minerals

It provides calcium, chromium, copper, selenium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium and zinc.

Sugars

It provides monosaccharides (glucose and fructose) and polysaccharides: (glucomannans/polymannose). These are derived from the mucilage layer of the plant and are known as mucopolysaccharides. The most prominent monosaccharide is mannose-6-phosphate, and the most common polysaccharides are called glucomannans [beta-(1, 4)-acetylated mannan].

Acemannan, a prominent glucomannan has also been found. Recently, a glycoprotein with antiallergic properties, called alprogen and novel anti-inflammatory compound, C-glucosyl chromone, has been isolated from Aloe Vera gel.

Anthraquinones

It provides 12 anthraquinones, which are phenolic compounds traditionally known as laxatives. Aloin and emodin act as analgesics, antibacterials and antivirals.

Fatty acids

It provides 4 plant steroids; cholesterol, campesterol, β-sisosterol and lupeol. All these have anti-inflammatory action and lupeol.

Hormones

Auxins and gibberellins.

Others

It provides 20 of the 22 human required amino acids and 7 of the 8 essential amino acids.

It also contains salicylic acid that possesses anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

Lignin, an inert substance, when included in topical preparations, enhances penetrative effect of the other ingredients into the skin.

Saponins that are the soapy substances form about 3% of the gel and have cleansing and antiseptic properties.