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Aloe Vera is particularly popular in the cosmetics industry. But can you really eat the plants from the genus of aloes?
In a nutshell
- Some aloes are edible, others highly poisonous
- only certain parts of the edible aloes are suitable for consumption
- Gel extraction is of great importance
- Process aloe vera gel in smoothies, salads, juices or mueslis
Aloe vera edible?
The genus of aloes consists of numerous species. These differ in that some representatives are poisonous and others are edible. The plant has been popular in medicine for some time. Some species can usefully supplement the diet.
Freshly harvested aloe leaf with plant juice
Notice: The ingredient aloin is considered a laxative. As a result, many preparations are only available in pharmacies.
Edible parts
You cannot eat all parts of the non-poisonous plants. Certain ingredients are toxic and can cause discomfort. In the worst case scenario, if you use the wrong parts, you will suffer severe poisoning. Consequently, it is important to prepare it correctly so that there are no health risks. The delicious juice lies between the leaf green and leaf pulp of the aloes. Before you take the gel, you should rinse it off with water.
Notice: The core inside the leaf is the water reservoir of the aloes and is edible. A healing effect is attributed to it.
3 edible species
Not all types of aloes are poisonous. In the following you will get to know three representatives that you can eat with a clear conscience.
Aloe arborescents
- known as tree aloe
- bare trunk
- Rosette of leaves at the end of the stem
- less known in Europe
- grows as a shrub
- up to 1.5 meters high
- narrow leaves with small teeth
- bright and red flowers
- resistant to low temperatures
- popular as a medicinal plant
Aloe barbadensis
- known as aloe vera
- Trunk up to 55 cm tall
- long leaves with green and white spots
- yellow and orange flowers between April and August
- popular as a medicinal plant
Aloe ferox
- dull green leaves
- healing properties of the plant
- Trunk grows up to three meters high
- Leaves up to 80 cm long
- horny spines on top and bottom
- red flower clusters that grow to over a meter tall
- Aloin is a strong laxative
- Poisoning only in case of overdose
- are better tolerated alternatives
frequently asked Questions
How do I get aloe vera gel?Typical for the plant is the growth of the leaves from the inside out. The outer leaves of the plants die continuously, making them ideal for extracting gel. After cutting, you can position the sheets vertically. The bitter juice then flows out automatically. In the following you can win the gel in three steps. Divide the leaves crosswise and halve them. The gel can then be squeezed out of the leaves
Can edible aloe vera be stored?Basically, you should only ever harvest as many leaves as you need. However, the leaf pieces can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days without hesitation.
Why is the gel so healthy?There are numerous minerals and vitamins in the leaf. Among other things, vitamin E, magnesium and zinc are found in the aloes. Consequently, this is ideal as a dietary supplement unless you are allergic.
How can I eat aloe gel?There are different options for use. On the one hand you can prepare a smoothie, muesli or porridge. On the other hand, the gel also tastes delicious in salads or juices.