Definition of aloe vera

The origins of the name "aloe vera" can be traced back to ancient times. The genus Aloe, which includes the plant commonly known as aloe vera, gets its name from the Greek word 'αλλος' (allos), meaning 'bitter' in reference to the plant's bitter-tasting sap. The specific epithet 'vera' (meaning 'true' in Latin) was added to the species name Aloe barbadensis by Karsten in the early 19th century to distinguish this particular species of aloe from other species in the genus, as it was believed to be the most medicinally beneficial. However, recent phytochemical analyses have shown that 'Aloe barbadensis' and 'Aloe vera' are distinct entities, and 'Aloe barbadensis' is now recognized as the scientific name for aloe vera while 'Aloe vera' remains a common name used to refer to this plant. So, while the name 'aloe vera' is a combination of Greek and Latin, it should be noted that the origin of the name 'vera' is more recent, and its usage should not be confused with the Latin term 'vera' used to signify authenticity or truthfulness in ancient times.