The gel from the leaves of aloe vera is not only good for the skin and hair, but is also suitable as a food additive. This is said to have both a strengthening and a calming effect on the digestive organs in particular.
The aloe vera is edible and can be processed into juice, for example
For centuries, aloe vera has had its place in medicine as a remedy for various skin ailments. The cut leaf pieces were successfully used to heal burns and minor injuries, but also to treat rashes, psoriasis and neurodermatitis.
On the other hand, the myths about aloe vera as a panacea have not been scientifically proven, starting with general strengthening of the immune system and detoxification of the body through to healing of serious diseases such as diabetes or even cancer. The aloin contained in the plant has a strong laxative effect, so that the few preparations that are still available today are only available in pharmacies.
Win aloe vera gel
Aloe vera leaves grow from the inside out. While the plant constantly produces new leaves in the middle, the outer leaves die off or can be harvested regularly to obtain gel. It should be noted that after the leaves have been cut off, they are placed vertically until the yellow, bitter, slightly poisonous juice has drained completely. Then proceed as follows:
- first divide the leaf crosswise into portions,
- cut each piece in half lengthwise
- scrape the fresh gel out of the halves with a spoon.
Use and processing of the gel
It is advisable to only harvest as many leaves as you need fresh gel. The leaf pieces can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. If stored for a longer period of time, the active ingredients are lost. The fresh gel can be frozen without significant loss of quality. Once thawed, it should be used up immediately. The gel is used by applying it to the skin or stirring it into yoghurt, muesli or cold drinks with food. Pure gel is also edible, but it has no special taste or tastes slightly bitter.
tips
If you are interested in making homemade creams, soaps or lotions with aloe vera, you will find numerous recipes and detailed instructions on the Internet. The easiest way is still to rub the skin of your face in the morning and evening with a cut leaf, as Cleopatra is said to have done.