Aloe Vera grows in South Africa in many inhospitable and bleak places. Over 350 species of aloes are known so far. It is also widely used in cosmetics and beauty preparations. The fresh sap has the ability to heal radiation burns, however, it must be fresh as it loses its healing properties with age.
The sap is excellent for moisturising cream, and when added to shampoo, can soothe dry or itchy scalps. Add to your suntan cream for its soothing properties.
I love to use aloe juice for expelling worms and relieving constipation and indigestion, but be careful if you suffer from piles as it drains blood to the large intestine.
Try your aloe juice to your burns, scalds, rashes and heat rash. The best way is to shave off the spiked borders of the leaf and cut the leaf crossways, and then apply the fresh, sticky juice directly to the affected area. It can also be used for mouth ulcers, but it is very bitter.
Aloe Ferox stimulates the production of collagen in the body, which maintains flexibility in the skin, bones, joints and tissues.
So, I have included some cleansing juices to make with the aloe:
• 500ml water, half aloe leafs, three apples, 1cm piece of ginger, one lemon, a spring fresh buchu. Makes 750ml.
• A nice refreshing aloe drink is juicing two apples, one wedge aloe, one handful of fresh mint and dilute with water until it is 300ml.
The best leaves to pick are the lower ones that are about to turn brown and become dried leaves around the stem. The leaves are ripe when the tips have a slight red blush. Don’t pick from baby aloes.
Use a sharp knife and a bag to pick the leaf and cut close to the stem as possible.
Happy juicing and enjoy!
For more information, contact Lizél Britz at 072 243 7707.
