The Aloe Vera Project which was started by the Men’s Garden Club of Jacksonville in 2014 for the purpose of distributing aloe vera plants to cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy is now administrated by Rose’s Garden in partnership with the Club.

 

Rose’s Garden would like to provide Aloe Vera plants to cancer patients at no charge.

Rose’s Garden also needs volunteers to help maintain and distribute the plants.

Contact Rose’s Garden at rosesgarden1122@gmail.com for a free plant and to volunteer.

The Aloe Vera Project is a free program to match our growing skills with the needs of the cancer community. As you are aware, radiation therapy can cause a painful, itchy skin burn.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the Aloe Vera plant has been used for thousands of years to heal a variety of conditions, most notably burns, wounds, skin irritations, and constipation. It is grown in subtropical and tropical locations, including South Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean and grows quite well in northeast Florida. Aloe was one of the most frequently prescribed medicines throughout most of the 18th and 19th centuries and it remains one of the most commonly used herbs in the United States today.

Aloe gel, made from the central part of the aloe leaf, is a common household remedy for minor cuts and burns, as well as sunburns. It can be found in many commercial skin lotions and cosmetics. Aloe contains active compounds that may reduce pain and inflammation and stimulate skin growth and repair. Aloe Vera can reportedly east the pain and dryness associated with radiation burns caused by radiation therapy associated with cancer.