There are over 300 species of "Aloe" but only a few have every been used traditionally as herbal medicine. Studies have shown that Aloe vera, when taken internally, may be helpful for diabetes, elevated blood lipids, and ulcerative colitis. It has also been shown to aid fighting cancer in cats and dogs. Aloe vera is used as an ingredient in lotions, beverages, yogurts, desserts, makeup, tissues, soaps, sunscreens, shampoos, and herbal medicine. Aloe vera leaves contain a range of biologically active compouds, including acetylated mannans, and polymannans. Aloe vera gel typically contains 96-99% water. The outer leaf of the Aloe vera plant contains Aloin, a dark, sticky substance that has laxative effects. Whole leaf Aloe vera powder contains aloin, whereas Aloe vera gel (or inner leaf) powder does not contain aloin. It takes 200kg of Aloe vera gel to produce 1 kg of 200:1 Aloe vera gel powder.

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