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Aloe vera is one of the best-known and most used plants not only in cosmetics and natural medicine, but also in the kitchen and home health care. Its effects were known already in antiquity and today it remains one of the greatest natural treasures. Although it consists of 99% water, that 1% of gel contains more than 100 active ingredients that act synergistically on the whole body.
In this article you’ll learn why aloe vera should not be missing from your home, how to grow it, how to use its gel and exactly how it benefits health.
History and origin of the plant
Aloe vera belongs to the genus Aloe, which includes over 500 species of succulent plants. It originates from North Africa and areas around the Mediterranean Sea. The first mention of aloe vera comes from the Egyptian Ebers Papyrus dated to 1550 BC. The Egyptians called it the plant of immortality, because they believed in its rejuvenating and healing effects. Cleopatra and Nefertiti used aloe to maintain a youthful appearance. Legend has it that Aristotle convinced Alexander the Great to conquer the island of Socotra because of its supplies of aloe to treat wounded soldiers.
What aloe vera looks like and how to identify it?
This perennial has strong, fleshy leaves arranged in a rosette. The leaves can reach up to 80 cm in length and about 10 cm in width at the base. They are gray-green, with a fine bloom and spines along the sides. In summer the coloring may shift to greener tones, in winter to bronze. Flower stalks grow from the stem of the plant reaching 60–90 cm high with tubular yellow flowers.
Growing aloe vera at home
Aloe is an ideal choice for beginner growers – it doesn’t require much care and brings many benefits.
- Good drainage: the soil should not retain water – ideal is a mix of loam and sand or a substrate for succulents.
- Placement: a bright spot with indirect sun (e.g., an east- or south-facing window).
- Watering: in summer once a week, in winter twice a month is enough.
- Temperature: if it drops below 26 °C move the plant indoors.
- Fertilizing: not necessary, but you can use a mildly diluted fertilizer.
How to obtain and use aloe vera gel?
Just cut off a leaf, remove the thorns and the skin and blend the obtained clear gel. Store it in the refrigerator for a maximum of 7 days. The gel can be used:
- for burns, cuts, eczema
- as a facial mask
- internally as an ingredient in drinks
💡 Recipe for an aloe drink: 2 teaspoons of gel + 150 ml of water or fruit juice + a few drops of lemon. Never boil!
Nutrients in aloe vera
Aloe vera contains:
- vitamins A, C, E, B12
- calcium, magnesium, zinc
- amino acids, enzymes, anthraquinones
- germanium – a mineral supporting immunity and blood circulation
It is unique in that it increases the absorption of both water- and fat-soluble vitamins, thereby supporting the overall utilization of nutrients from food.
Main health benefits of aloe vera
- Skin care
It speeds up the healing of wounds, burns and irritations. It provides relief for eczema, psoriasis and ulcers. - Teeth and gums
Stabilized aloe gel helps heal gum inflammations and reduces pain with dental problems. - Immune support
It both stimulates and calms immune responses. Suitable for weakened immunity as well as for an overactive immune response (e.g., allergies). - Digestive issues
It helps with heartburn, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, and colitis. It soothes the digestive tract and supports the production of digestive enzymes. - Vitamin absorption
It improves the utilization of vitamins B12 and E, thereby supporting energy, healthy blood and the functioning of the nervous system.
Aloe vera in the kitchen
Aloe gel can be added to homemade drinks, smoothies or juices. However, cooking destroys its beneficial substances, so it is used exclusively cold.
Conclusion: Why have aloe vera at home?
Aloe vera is a natural “home medicine cabinet in a pot.” It supports health, beauty and digestion. It is easy to grow and useful throughout the household. One plant is enough – and you’ll have a natural source of active substances available for the whole family.
