Aloe vera is part of the Cactaceae (cacti) family. It is a truly shamanic plant. The plant’s epithet vera – means true or genuine.

The leaves of the Aloe plant are thick and fleshy, containing a slippery moisture-rich ‘gel’. It is best known for its powerful properties in treating burns, healing wounds, and soothing rashes. But did you know that it is edible too! It can be added into juices and apparently even ice creams. Here at Solitude, we love a good Aloe Vera juice. It is quick and easy to make.

Preparing the gel:

1. To remove the green rind of the leaf from all sides, insert a knife, and slowly peel off the green skin.
2. You should be left with the translucent aloe vera gel.
3. Rinse the gel in a bowl of water. Drain completely and pat dry.

Making the juice:

Add a 2-inch portion of the aloe gel into a blender, with 1/4th cup of chilled water. It is recommended to add sugar or any sweetener as per taste, to cut through the bitter taste of the aloe gel.

After blending, strain the juice, and add some lemon juice.

Your delicious Aloe Vera juice is ready. This is the perfect summer drink!

Aloe Vera is also easy to grow. Break a piece off the plant and plug it into the soil and it not only grows, but is self-propagating.

A hardy plant, easy to grow and use, with a range of amazing benefits. It can’t get much simpler!