The Aloe Vera plant has been known for its healing abilities for centuries. Although many false healing abilities have been attributed to its gel over the years, the plant’s gel does offer some benefits to us. Let’s learn a bit more about those healing benefits.
Bountiful Benefits
The Aloe Vera plant’s leaf, when cut, releases two different gel substances. The goo that oozes from the green part of the leaf is called Aloin. It is a yellowish-green fluid that can actually cause irritation to the skin. The transparent liquid, which will ooze from the inner part of the leaf, is the “good stuff”!
The gel can be applied to burns, bug bites, rashes, and minor cuts. It is said to sooth irritation and promote faster healing of wounds. Many people will apply Aloe Vera gel to sunburns as well. I recommend mixing one part gel to three parts moisturizing body lotion and applying all over your skin after spending your day in the sun. Even if you haven’t been over-exposed, applying lotion mixed with Aloe Vera after sunning will keep your skin moisturized.
Household Aloe Vera
Because the Aloe Vera plant is fairly tropical, not many of us live in a climate hospitable enough to grow this plant outside. But the good news is, it makes a great indoor plant. They need a good amount of sunlight, so be sure to place them near a window, where they can receive a full day’s sun. They prefer gritty, sandy potting soil, which will drain easily. It is recommended to layer the pot with gravel or stones, to allow for proper drainage. Also, a porous pot, like a terracota pot, would be the best home for your Aloe Vera plant.
The Watering Technique Is Simple, But Important:
- During the Summer months, allow the soil to dry completely before watering
- Water until completely soaked though
- During the Winter months, once again, allow the soil to dry completely before watering
- Water sparingly, maybe 1 or 2 cups of water each time
- The Aloe Vera plant will actually go into a somewhat dormant state during the Winter, so not much water is needed, and over-watering can be harmful
Because the benefits of Aloe Vera have become so well-known, this is an easy plant to find. Every garden center will offer this plant, and fairly inexpensively too! Even if you never use the plant’s gel in a medicinal way, these are still nice looking, easy to care for plants to keep around the house. If you like plants, but don’t necessarily have a “green thumb”, this may be just the plant for you!
Until next time, take care and happy gardening!
[...] Aloe Vera–Very Alluring [...]