Emily Dickinson Lexicon

AL'OES, n.

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. – Encyc.