Aloe

What is Aloe?

Aloe, also known as Lu Hui in Chinese Medicine, is a powerful plant known for its cooling and cleansing properties. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is used to treat a variety of conditions related to heat accumulation and deficiency. Here are some common TCM patterns that Aloe is used for:

Heat-Accumulation

Aloe is often used to treat conditions related to heat accumulation in the body, such as acne, eczema, and mouth sores. It is believed to clear heat and toxins from the body, helping to reduce inflammation and skin irritation.

Exuberant Heat

Aloe is also used to treat conditions caused by excess heat in the body, such as fever, constipation, and irritability. It is believed to cool the body and promote a sense of calm.

Heart-Heat

In TCM, the heart is seen as the ruler of the body and is associated with the emotion of joy. When there is excess heat in the heart, it can manifest as irritability, insomnia, and palpitations. Aloe is believed to cool the heart and help regulate emotions.

Liver-Heat

The liver is seen as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi (energy) and blood throughout the body. When there is excess heat in the liver, it can manifest as anger, frustration, and irritability. Aloe is believed to cool the liver and help regulate Qi flow.

Liver-Excess Heat

In cases of excess heat in the liver, Aloe is believed to help drain the heat and toxins from the body, reducing symptoms such as dizziness, headache, and irritability.

Contraindications

Aloe should be avoided in cases of cold from deficiency, spleen deficiency, and stomach cold from deficiency. It should also be avoided during pregnancy and by nursing mothers.

Treatment Principles

In TCM, Aloe is used to cool the liver, kill parasites, drain fire, clear heat, and strengthen the stomach.

Properties

Aloe is believed to affect the Large Intestine (33%), Liver (33%), and Stomach (33%) channels. It is classified as cold (100%) in properties and has a bitter (100%) taste.

Overall, Aloe is a powerful plant that is used to treat a variety of heat-related conditions in TCM. Its cooling and cleansing properties make it an effective treatment for skin irritation, fever, and excess heat in the body. However, it is important to be aware of the contraindications and only use Aloe under the guidance of a licensed practitioner.