KJV Dictionary Definition: aloe

aloe

AL'OE, n. al'o, plu. aloes, pronounced aloze, and popularly al'oez, in three syllables, according to the Latin. L. aloe; Gr; Heb. plu aloe trees.

In botany, a genus of monogynian hexanders, of many species; all natives of warm climates, and most of them, of the southern part of Africa.

Among the Mohammedans, the aloe is a symbolic plant, especially in Egypt; and every one who returns from a pilgrimage to Mecca, hangs it over his street door, as a token that he has performed the journey.

In Africa, the leaves of the Guinea aloe are made into durable ropes. Of one species are made fishing lines, bow strings, stockings and hammocs. The leaves of another species hole rain water.

aloes

ALOES, in medicine, is the inspissated juice of the aloe. The juice is collected from the leaves, which are cut and put in a tub, and when a large quantity is procured, it is boiled to a suitable consistence; or it is exposed to the sun, till all the fluid part is exhaled. There are several kinds sold in the shops; as the socotrine aloes from Socotora, an isle in the Indian ocean; the hepatic or common Barbadoes aloes; and the fetid or caballine aloes.

Aloes is a stimulating stomachic purgative; when taken in small doses, it is useful for people of a lax habit and sedentary life.