Aloe Vera

There are several hundred species of Aloe, and many varieties within each species. The most famous representative of this group of plants is the edible Aloe vera, which has a rich medicinal history due to it’s anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-parasitic properties. In our Bustan we grow an unidentified variety of Aloe vera, and the Barbadensis-miller-stockton, which is know for its superb medicinal qualities. 

Aloe vera thrives is warm dry climates, and is an exceptionally adaptable plants. They do well in part shade with occasional watering, however, if you want your plant to produce thick succulent leaves, it will need regular watering of once to twice a week, regular applications of compost, and removal the "pups" that grow from its base.  

Aloe's medicinal qualities

Aloe vera originates from the Arabian Peninsula and is one of the oldest known medicinal plants in the world. The first known written reports on aloe very reach as far back as 6000 years ago in ancient Egypt.

Aloe acts as a natural antibiotic and can be used both internally and externally. The active ingredients that are part of the aloe leaf you want to use are found in the gel that forms in the inner parts of the leaf. This part is odorless and is composed of a clear gel-like substance. The part you want to stay away from is the aloe latex, or “juice” that seeps from the leaf when cut. Aloe latex has a yellowish color, a strong bitter taste, and smells like chicken soup. This latex is aggravating to the stomach and acts as a strong laxative that can cause serious health complications if used often. The gel on the inner part of the leaf is the only part that can be used regularly with safety.

When taken internally, aloe reduces inflammation and high cholesterol, eases arthritis, prevents kidney stones, benefits cardiovascular health, and protects the body from oxidative stress. Aloe also heals the digestive tract and is useful in healing acid reflux, soothing ulcers, hemorrhoids, gastritis, diverticulitis, colitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and kills off pathogens that create colon, stomach, and rectal cancers. Aloe also has a unique ability to stop the growth of polyps in the intestinal tract and reduces the growth of hemorrhoids. 

The anti-inflammatory nature of aloe rejuvenates the appendix, as well as the ileum - a critical part of the intestinal tract where the body produces vitamin B12. Aloe also rehabilitates the ileum and delivers a bio-available form of B12, making aloe an all-around B12 enhancer. 

When used internally fresh aloe vera gel flushes toxins out of the bloodstream and body, helping to purge the liver of toxins such as pesticides while it is also known to help remove radiation from the body.

Aloe also supports the adrenals and helps to recover from adrenal fatigue while improving muscle function. Aloe is alkaline in nature and can help relieve acidosis and alkalize the entire body.

Aloe can also be used internally and externally to treat a broad spectrum of skin disorders - from burns to acne, eczema, and psoriasis. When used internally, aloe water helps to hydrate the skin, prevent wrinkles and aging, stimulate hair growth, and the gel can even be used as a toothpaste or mouthwash to keep away plaque-producing bacteria.

There are a number of ways in which you can incorporate aloe in your diet on a regular basis. The easiest way to use aloe is to make aloe water using fresh aloe leaves.

Aloe Water

Ingredients:

• 2- inch piece of fresh aloe leaf
• 1-2 glasses of water

Preparation:

Cut off a 2-inch piece of the aloe leaf. Trim the sides of the leaf, and cut the leaf in half, exposing the inner gel. Scoop out approximately 1 tablespoon of the gel, and blend on high for 10-20 seconds. Drink immediately on an empty stomach for optimal benefits. Wrap the remaining aloe leaf in a paper bag and store it in the refrigerator where it will keep for 1-2 weeks, and can be used as needed. For a quick demonstration, go to Medical Medium Aloe Water

Aloe Pineapple Juice Cooler

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pineapple juice
• 2 tbsp aloe vera inner gel
• 3 mint leaves
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/2 cup water

Directions:

Cut open a 2-inch piece of the aloe leaf, and scoop out 2 tablespoons of the inner gel. Bend with lime juice and water until smooth. Add mint leaves to create a healthy and refreshing drink. For a quick demonstration, go to Medical Medium Aloe Pineapple Juice Cooler

Watermelon Aloe Slushy

This drink is both refreshing and sweet and takes only a few minutes to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups seedless watermelon
• 2 tbsp aloe (double for extra medicinal benefits)
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
• 1 tbsp lime juice

Directions:

Place all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Drink immediately. For a quick demonstration, go to Medical Medium Watermelon Aloe Slushy

Where to buy plants and fresh aloe leaves

Fresh aloe leaves and plants can be purchased from the Bustan in Kfar Monash. Contact us at Plants Heal 101 

Enjoy your healthy, restorative, and delicious aloe drinks!

With love,

Beth