Common Name:

General Information

Aloe asperifolia is an evergreen, succulent perennial plant growing 15 - 30cm tall. It forms stemless rosettes of leaves in a cluster of 20 - 40 rosettes[].
The plant is harvested from the wild for local medicinal use.

Known Hazards

The sap of Aloe species contains anthraquinones. These compounds have several beneficial medicinal actions, particularly as a laxative, and many species of Aloe are thus employed in traditional medicine. Whilst safe in small doses and for short periods of time, anthraquinones do have potential problems if used in excess. These include congestion and irritation of the pelvic organs[]. Long term use of anthraquinone laxatives may also play a role in development of colorectal cancer as they have genotoxic potential, and tumorigenic potential[].

Botanical References

Range

Southern Africa - western Namibia.

Habitat

Found on limestone and conglomerate in parts of the Namib Desert which are not only devoid of other plant life, but almost devoid of soil.

Properties

Medicinal Rating
Habit	Evergreen Perennial
Height	0.25 m
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

A plant of the Namib Desert, growing in areas which are not only devoid of other plant life, but almost devoid of soil, and where most of the moisture available to plants of this species is derived from fog[].

Aloe species follow the Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM). CAM plants can fix carbon dioxide at night and photosynthesize with closed stomata during the day, thus minimizing water loss. This, plus their succulent leaves and stems, and the presence of a thick cuticle, makes them well adapted to dry conditions[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

An infusion of the leaves is used to treat arteriosclerosis, kidney problems, asthma, colds and epilepsy[]. A decoction is taken, and is also given to livestock, in order to expel the placenta[, ]. The leaves are chewed or the decoction is drunk to treat stomach-ache and chest pains[].

The distinctive constituents in Aloe leaves are phenolic compounds, including chromone, anthraquinone or anthrone derivatives. Some of the compounds are found in many species, whereas others occur in only a few[].

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed - we have no specific information on this species - in general Aloes are sown in a sandy, well-drained potting soil in a warm, shady position in standard seed trays. Germination takes about three weeks. Cover the seed with a thin layer of sand (1 - 2mm), keep moist. The seedlings can be planted out in individual bags or containers as soon as they are large enough to handle[].

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