Aloe – one of nature’s most prized plants for its healing capabilities. I discovered the amazing benefit of this plant when I was badly sunburned back in Puerto Rico. My grandmother blended up this thick aloe concoction that literally saved me from going to the emergency room that night.
Fast forward 20 years and I still stand by this trusted friend. I brought her back into my life when the acid reflux started flaring up again. Her soothing properties have been helping to heal the tissue in my esophagus and gut and immediately squelch an active GERD episode. Aloe is an antioxidant so it helps to calm inflammation. It’s also very hydrating so wonderful for the skin and internally. Many high quality and non-toxic beauty products are using this plant in their ingredients. Aloe vera is a natural detoxifying agent, which will also aid in improved digestion and circulation. Be sure not to consume fresh aloe water within 2 hours of taking any medications or supplements as its detoxifying properties can interfere with the absorption of medications and other minerals. I’ve heard it will even assist with healing gums and canker sores. As a sufferer of LPR, I am prone to acid induced canker sores so Aloe is a very close ally during those flare ups.
INGREDIENTS:
2 inches fresh aloe
8-10 oz filtered water
Find fully grown old, outer leaves. Remove the leaves, cut them off at an angle at the base of the plant. You can also buy leaves at the local grocery store or on sites like Etsy.
If using freshly cut leaves be sure to stand them upright and let the dark sap at the bottom drain through. That can be an irritant to the digestive system so you want to avoid consuming it. If using the store bought leaves, I just trim the bottom off a bit and start a little higher up. Use clean hands when you are ready to handle the inside gel.
Cut about a 2 inch piece and take the skin off (discard). Drop the gel into the blender and add the water. Blend for 30-45 seconds. Enjoy!
To store the rest of the aloe leaf, I wrap the base with foil or BPA free plastic wrap. Wax might work. Then take a rubber band and seal the covering on. Place in a freezer bag and store for up to 8 months in the freezer.