Aloe vera is known for its numerous health and beauty benefits. To make the most of this versatile plant, it’s essential to harvest and store the gel correctly, as well as explore its many uses.
Harvesting Aloe Vera Gel
- Cut a Leaf: Choose a large, healthy aloe vera leaf and cut it close to the stem.
- Drain the Leaf: Allow the yellowish-orange sap (aloin) to drain out and discard it. This is important if you plan to consume the gel.
- Cut the Leaf in Half: Slice the leaf lengthwise.
- Scoop the Gel: Use a spoon to extract the translucent gel.
Storing Aloe Vera Gel
- Short Term Storage: Refrigerate the whole leaf or extracted gel. For longer shelf life, add natural preservatives like crushed vitamin C tablets.
- Long Term Storage: Freeze the whole leaf or gel in ice cube trays and thaw when needed.
20 Ways to Use Aloe Vera Gel
- Natural Moisturizer: Apply directly to the skin for hydration and healing.
- Makeup Primer: Use as a gentle primer before makeup.
- Eyebrow Gel: Style and set eyebrows.
- Glitter Application: Mix with glitter for a sparkling effect.
- Natural Exfoliator: Combine with brown sugar or coffee grounds for a body scrub.
- Makeup Remover: Use as a gentle makeup remover.
- Toothpaste Alternative: Helps control cavity-causing bacteria.
- Mouthwash: Freshens breath with a homemade aloe mouthwash.
- Shaving Gel: Prevents razor burn and softens skin.
- Hair Mask: Soothes the scalp and moisturizes hair.
- Anti-Frizz Treatment: Controls frizzy hair.
- Acne Treatment: Helps treat acne with natural salicylic acid.
- Personal Lubricant: A natural alternative.
- Soothe Minor Burns: Helps heal sunburns and minor burns.
- Bug Bite Relief: Soothes itching and speeds up healing.
- Constipation Relief: Aloe vera juice aids digestion.
- Hangover Prevention: Reduces hangover symptoms.
- Bloating Relief: Soothes stomach after overeating.
- Canker Sore Treatment: Speeds up healing of mouth sores.
- Diabetes Management: May help with blood sugar level management.
Final Tips
Always consult a healthcare professional before using aloe vera for medical purposes. Aloe vera is a powerful and versatile plant that can benefit your health and beauty routine.