| 5.ANTHRAQUINONES |
| There are twelve of these Phenolic compounds which are found exclusively in the plant sap. In small quantities, when they do not exert their purgative effect, they aid absorption from the gastro-intestinal tract and have anti-microbial and pain killing effects. In some commercial health drinks, the anthrequinones are removed because of the fear of producing abdominal pain or diarrhoea, but they are actually beneficial in small amounts. The important ones, Aloin and Emodin, act as painkillers. they also function as anti-bacterials and anti-virals. |
| 6.LIDNIN |
| This in itself is an inert substance but when included in topical preparations it endows Aloe vera with a singular penetretive effect so the other ingredients are absorbed into the skin. |
| 7.SAPONINS |
| These soapy substances form about 3% of the Aloe vera gel and are capable of cleansing, having antiseptic properties These act powerfully as anti-micrebials against bacteria, viruses, fungi and yeasts. |
| 8.FATTY ACIDS |
| Cholesterol, Campesterol, b.Sisosterol and lupeol. These four plant steroids are important anti-flammatory agents. |
| 9.SALICYLIC ACID |
| An aspirin-like compound possessing anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. |
| 10.AMINO ACIDS |
| The body needs 22 amino acids- the gel provided 20 of these.More importantly, it provides 7 out of 8 essential amino acids which the body cannot synthesise. |
| Source: www.positivehealth.com/permit/Articles/Aloe%20Vera/atherton.html |