Courtesy of: Aruba Daily
Tourists have been visiting the wonderful island of Aruba since the late 1940’s, enjoying the pristine beaches, clear waters and Aruba’s dynamic nightlife. But one of the most unique experiences you and your skin will certainly appreciate for years to come is visiting the world famous Aruba Aloe Balm Plantation, Factory and Museum. You will learn about the rich history of Aloe Vera, its importance to Aruba’s economy, and the healing properties of this miracle plant.
The Aloe Vera Plant, a brief history.
Aloe Vera’s healing properties were discovered centuries ago and it has been used as an ingredient in medications throughout the world by many different cultures ever since. It is believed that Cleopatra used Aloe to enhance the natural beauty of her skin by bathing in Aloe gel and that Christopher Columbus said: “Four vegetables are indispensable for the well being of a man: Wheat, the grape, the olive and Aloe. The first nourishes him, the second raises his spirit, the third brings him harmony and the fourth cures him.”
Aloe Vera, meaning True Plant in Latin, originally comes from Africa and the plant has been endowed with such marvelous properties that over the years it has been given names such as the Burn Plant, Medicine Plant, Wand of Heaven and even Plant of Life.
“Island of Aloe”.
The plant was introduced in Aruba in the mid 1800’s, and because of the perfect weather conditions for the plant to grow in Aruba became one of the largest exporters of Aloe Vera products in the world earning the nickname “Island of Aloe”. Aloe has proven to be so important to the local economy that the plant is even shown in the code of arms of Aruba. Aloe Vera nowadays tops the list as one of the most powerful moisturizers and hydrating remedies available and Aruban aloe is known to be the best in the world.
The Aruba Aloe Balm Factory and Museum Tour:
Founded in 1890, Aruba Aloe Balm is one of the oldest companies in Aruba and the only company that still grows and processes Aloe on the island. By visiting this iconic landmark and plantation, you will learn about the plant’s rich history and about how Aruba Aloe makes its world famous skin care products.
During the tour, the super friendly local staff will guide you through the process of how they grow, hand cut and process the products that are sold worldwide. You will also get a guided tour of the museum that serves as a national depository for ancient aloe tools and equipment as well as a complete library on the history, manufacturing and healing qualities of Aloe.
Claude Cyr & Burdette Redfirn, from New Brunswick Canada, on Aruba for a friend’s wedding:
“It is my first time on the island; we are having a great time! Aruba is beautiful and the water is amazing. I have used the Aruba Aloe products a lot already for small burns and especially sunburns. We are glad we came to take the tour to see the process; I had no idea that it was such a small company and that everything is done manually which is good for the local economy. What surprised me is that Aloe is actually edible and a bodily cleanser, so I have learned quite a bit. The tour guide Randy is excellent! “
Laura & Dominio Bucciero, from Napels Italy on their honeymoon:
“First time in Aruba, we are here for our honeymoon and staying for a week. The tour is very interesting, even though I don’t perfectly understand English. We have Aloe in Italy but there it’s not such good quality as the Aloe here. I have purchased the hand and body lotion because I don’t really sunburn but still want very smooth and hydrated skin.”
If you want to experience this unique and authentic experience come visit us during your stay here on Aruba! The tour & museum are open Monday thru Saturday 8 am to 5 pm. If you are interested in learning more about Aruba Aloe products you can also visit www.arubaaloe.com. We hope to see you soon!
For more information about the Aruba Aloe tour, please call T:+297 588 3222 or email: tours@arubaaloe.com or consult any hotel concierge.
