Herbs for Stretch Marks

Aloe vera (syn. A. barbadensis) is a succulent commonly grown as a potted plant, notable for its thick, fleshy leaves that contain two distinct medicinal components. The inner clear gel is renowned for its soothing and wound-healing properties, while the bitter yellow sap from the leaf base (often called “bitter aloes”) has a strong laxative effect. Historically, aloe vera has been prized for treating skin irritations, burns, and ulcers. It can also be taken internally (as juice) to support digestion and immune function. Whole leaf aloe juice has been used to help fight arthritis, AIDS, cancer, and other chronic conditions, though the outer leaf portion containing anthraquinones is typically filtered out to avoid harsh laxative effects.

Olive (Olea europaea) is a small evergreen tree, typically 33 ft (10 m), with grayish bark, leathery leaves, and green fruit maturing to black. The leaves are mildly hypotensive, and olive oil (pressed from the fruit) is prized for its nutritional benefits—particularly in improving cardiovascular health and lowering cholesterol.