Meeting Manny | How To Extract Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe Vera gel is well-known for its anti-oxidant and antibacterial properties. Indeed, it is used to make topical medications for skin conditions, as well as in cosmetics.

However, some of these products might be expensive and diluted with different ingredients which don’t fit your needs. So, next time you go shopping, buy yourself an aloe vera plant and read this article to learn how to extract its gel.

Before you harvest any aloe vera gel, you need to assess your plant and be sure it is mature. Check the length of the leaves: they should be about 20cm (8in) long. Aloe vera usually starts producing gel after two years. If you don’t want to wait, buy a mature plant.

Once you’re all set, cut one of the outer leaves at the base of the plant. These are the thickest and oldest. Use a sharp knife to cause minimal damage to your aloe vera. Remember: the leaves won’t grow back, so only cut the ones you’ll need.

Now, a yellowish liquid will start to ooze from your cut leaves. This is not aloe gel, but aloe latex. This substance has laxative properties, so separate it from the gel. You can either save it for other purposes or pour it away. However, before ingesting it, you might want to talk to an expert.

Wash the leaves carefully and dry them. On a chopping board, cut the top part and the spines on the sides of your leaves. If the latex starts oozing again, repeat the previous step.

Proceed by cutting the leaves horizontally. Scrape the gel from the skin using a spoon. If you want, you can cut it in cubes for easier storage. Rinse the gel two or three times to remove possible residues of latex.

Now, you’re ready to use aloe vera gel for your needs.

Uses of Aloe Gel on the Face

Aloe vera reduces the appearance of enlarged pores, it keeps the skin toned up and it creates a protective antibacterial film.

This beneficial plant decreases the skin’s impurities and it promotes its restoring activity thanks to astringent and healing properties.

Moreover, aloe vera is anti-inflammatory and anti-septic. Therefore, it’s very helpful to treat acne.

Hot Tips: Every skin is different and reacts differently. Start by testing your products on small sections of your face or body and check its effects.

Uses of Aloe Gel on the Hair

Try to apply aloe gel on your hair and scalp before or after the shampoo. Massage and leave it on for at least 15 minutes. Then wash it off.

It is believed that aloe decreases the risk of hair loss. However, it hasn’t been scientifically proven. Surely, aloe vera hydrates and purifies the scalp and leaves the hair shiny.

Have you ever used aloe vera gel for cosmetics or treatments? Share your experience in the comments below!

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