Harvesting Aloe

By Mabir Riveros, CEO

Healthydermis

. https://healthydermisskin.com/

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Harvesting Aloe

It is common knowledge that the aloe vera plant is excellent for cuts, burns, and insect bites. Having been labeled by many as a self-regenerating “first aid” plant, it is a highly effective natural remedy.

The soothing gel inside the leaves of this plant is amazing for routine skin care as well. But what about the rest of the body? Are there other benefits? To answer your question, yes. The aloe vera plant has several very powerful benefits. These benefits are numerous, but some of the more prevalent ones have been listed below

It is an antioxidant that helps to fight cancer, especially colon cancer. It helps reduce inflammation, both internally and externally, oxygenate the blood and energize the cells. It also moisturizes the skin and helps repair skin tissue.

It helps sooth internal digestive problems such as irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, acid reflux, and helps to cleanse the intes-

tinal tract.

It may also help reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks by increasing circulation and oxidation, balancing overly acidic dietary habits, increasing cardiovascular performance and endurance, and stabilizing blood pressure and reducing triglycerides.

The Harvesting Process

When you are ready to harvest the gel from a mature aloe leaf, be sure to choose an outermost leaf that is at least eight inches in length. These leaves are the oldest and largest, and the gel will be thick and rich in nutrients. To remove the aloe leaf, cut close to the base of the plant, and angle away from the center. This allows the plant to heal quickly and begin new growth.

Once the plant leaf is cut, hold it upright to allow the aloe to drain. Let the blade remain in this position for about 10 to 12 minutes, allowing the sap to drip onto a sheet.

Place the aloe leaf on a flat surface such as a chopping board, concave side down. Cut the tip of the leaf and the sharp edges along both sides with a sharp knife, then slice along the inside, separating the skin from the gel.

In some cases, you may be able to use a spoon or dull knife to remove it. Be careful firm pressure is important through this process.

Once successfully removed, the mucilage will reflect a transparent, solid gel.

Storing the Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe gel is best stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container. The ideal choice is a glass container that is dark green or brown in color to minimize light and allow the aloe to keep longer.

A drop of vitamin E and a small amount of citric acid powder will also help the gel to last longer, and prevent discoloration. A substitute for citric acid powder is to crush a vitamin C tablet or use a drop of grapefruit

seed extract.

Follow these steps, and you will have a ready supply of this natural remedy at your disposal. From external uses such as skin rejuvenation or soothing light burns, to internal problems such as acid reflux or high blood pressure, the aloe plant is a soothing solution that will leave you highly satisfied.