How to Harvest Aloe Vera Gel
You might have a few aloe vera plants in your home, but have you ever wondered how to harvest aloe gel and actually put it to use? We'll show you how.
Yield: 1 use
Cost: $2
Equipment
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Jar with lid
Materials
- 1 mature aloe plant or a pre-cut leaf
Instructions
- Select a large, unblemished leaf, and using a sharp knife, cut the leaf as close to the stem as possible.
- Lay the leaf on a flat surface or place it cut-end down in a drinking glass, and let the yellow sap drain from the cut end. Then rinse the leaf and pat it dry.
- Lay the leaf flat on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to remove the top piece of skin. Flip the leaf over and remove the bottom piece of skin. Discard the remaining stalk and rind.
- To use, apply the gel directly to skin or freeze and apply to inflamed skin, cuts, or wounds. To eat, you can add to smoothies, drinks, or salad dressings immediately after harvesting.
