Aloe Vera (medicinal plant)

Aloe Vera is one of my favorite plants as it is very beneficial in so many different ways, even more when you have kids. We are lucky that we have a big garden and can grow many of them. It is an easy plant to maintain and likes hot and dry climate. In the house, it is also used as an energy “cleaner”. Aloe is helpful with many skin problems such as:

• Burns, sunburns
• Insect bites
• Cuts
• Bruises
• Eczema
• Fungal infections 

It is also an excellent hair conditioner (without harmful chemicals) or to use internally when you have digestive problems.

If you want to use it on a regular basis, it is recommended to have at least 12 plants.

When I use it externally, I cut a leave or a section off, let it stand upside down in a glass for a few minutes then wash off the yellowish bitter aloin which is alkaloid then remove the spines and cut it in half.  You can now apply it on your desired area.

To make aloe water I separate the gelatin from the veins of the leaf. Put the gelatin in 1l of water and blend it with fresh ginger. I put the mixture in the fridge for a while and if I want, I add some slices of papaya, which is also beneficial for digestion.

 You also can use aloe vera in smoothies or salads.

 Have fun trying it out!