The bitter yellow juice found just below the skin has been harvested for centuries for its laxative properties, the treatment of arthritis, for its healing properties and for use in cosmetics. The hard, black, resinous product is known as Cape aloes or aloe lump and is used mainly for its laxative properties but is also taken for arthritis.  Cape Aloe contains aloin, principally used as a purgative, particularly for sedentary or phlegmatic types.  Aloe tincture or extract is very gentle and slow-acting although too frequent use is said to induce piles.  Taken in large doses, it can have a drastic effect, even causing abortion, so it should never be taken by pregnant women.  It is also made into an ointment for mild skin rashes and a decoction of its juice acts as a mosquito repellent. Cape aloe is sometimes blended with other bitter ingredients to flavor alcoholic drinks.