For centuries, aloe vera has had a firm place in medicine as a remedy for various skin conditions. The cut leaf pieces were successfully used to heal burns and small injuries, but also to treat rashes, psoriasis and neurodermatitis.
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On the other hand, the myths of the panacea aloe vera have not been scientifically proven, ranging from general strengthening of the immune system and detoxification of the body to the 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 still available today are pharmacy-only.
Win aloe vera gel
Aloe vera leaves grow inside out. While the plant in its center constantly produces new leaves, the outer leaves die off or can be harvested regularly for gel production. It should be noted that the leaves are placed vertically after they have been cut until the yellow, bitter, slightly poisonous juice has drained off completely. Then proceed as follows:
- First divide the sheet crosswise into portions,
- halve the individual pieces lengthways,
- 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. The active ingredients are lost if stored for a long time. The fresh gel can be frozen without any significant loss of quality. After thawing, this should be used up immediately. The gel is used by applying it to the skin or by 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
Anyone interested in making homemade creams, soaps or lotions with aloe vera can find numerous recipes and detailed instructions on the Internet. It is still easiest to rub the skin of the face in the morning and in the evening with a cut leaf, as Cleopatra is said to have done.
