Cape Aloe Ferox plants on a rocky Eastern Cape slope.
← Glossary indigenous Aloe Ferox Leaf Extract

Cape Aloe Ferox

Aloe ferox

Polysaccharide-rich barrier active, anti-inflammatory

Cape aloe ferox is a different species from the common aloe vera (*Aloe barbadensis*). It is native to the Eastern and Western Cape provinces of South Africa and produces a distinct phytochemical profile — higher polysaccharide content, lower anthraquinone content (the irritating compounds in standard aloe vera).

Cross-section of an aloe ferox leaf — clear gel surrounded by fibrous green outer.

Cape aloe ferox is harvested by hand by cutters known as aalwyntappers in the Eastern Cape. The leaves are tapped for their bitter sap (used for traditional medicine) and the pulp processed for cosmetic gel and extract. The industry has been formally regulated under NEMBA since 2008.

The science

The polysaccharide fraction of *Aloe ferox* gel is the active component most relevant for cosmetic use. These long-chain polysaccharides bind water (humectant action) and form a thin film over skin (occlusive action). The lower anthraquinone content compared to *barbadensis* makes Cape aloe ferox better suited to sensitive-skin applications.

Botanical illustration of Cape aloe ferox.
Botanical illustration · Aloe ferox
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