Aloe

With their rosettes and their fleshy, sword shaped leaves (similar in looks to an aspidistra), aloes are as common as greenhouse or ornamental plants. Besides their medicinal qualities, these plants, found mainly in Africa, are used in some ferments and bitters. When the leathery aloe leaves are cut into a honey-like liquid exudes, which has an intensely bitter taste, as most juices of this species do. Its juices are boiled down to a black substance or a solid residue, and sold commercially in this form at the pharmacy. Traditionally, this substance is used to discourage children from biting their nail.

However, in very small amounts, it can also be of value when making wines and cordials at home. It is recommended to consult your pharmacist on a suitable dosage rather than experimenting in the garden on your own, as some species can be poisonous.