[ review on different aspects of aloe vera L.]

ABSTRACT

Endemic of dry and warm climate, True Aloe with the scientific name Aloe vera [L.] Burm. f. is an invaluable medicinal plant. It is cultivated in Iran in two southern provinces of Hormozgan and Boushehr and also grown in greenhouse in some other regions. Many derivatives of Aloe plant are in use in food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Despite the fact that Aloe is endemic of Southern Iran, several kinds of finished products such as soft drinks and cosmetics are being imported to the country now. Since Aloe can be cost effectively cultivated in poor soil and water resource conditions of the southern provinces of Iran, expansion of its cultivation and processing facilities can be a remarkable step for both job creation and efficient exploitation of the poor farmlands in this part of the country