Welcome to the first installment of our wellness blog! 

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*NOTE*

As we all know none of the herbs, plants, seed, root have been evaluated by the FDA for medical use to heal or cure any diseases. Do not use any of these items without first discussing with a physician.* 

 Each week we will be discussing a different topic based on a herb, its usage and share a recipe or two on how to use it. If there is something you would like to have us discuss feel free to drop us a note letting us know. 

Today's discussion is Aloe.

Latin Names:  Aloe Vera, Aloe africana, Aloe arborescens, Aloe barbadensis

Commonly grown in hot, dry conditions and found in Texas, New Mexico, California and Arizona. It is part of the cactus family. 

Mostly used in topical form on the skin and hair. It is also taken orally although reports of stomach cramps and abdominal upset has been reported. 

Overuse of aloe has been reported to cause interaction with the drug digitoxin which is used for heart conditions. (https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/aloe-vera) 

Now with all the fun(JK) out the way lets see what ways it can be used.

Aloe vera benefits can include reducing dental plaque, accelerating wound healing, preventing wrinkles, and managing blood sugar. It is generally considered safe but aloe latex which is a yellow, bitter juice extracted from the leaf should not be taken orally as it has a laxative effect and painful stomach cramps. 

Used mainly in skin care products and concoctions for reducing irritation and redness.  Also used for combating dryness and dullness. Most of us know about putting on aloe vera gel after playing in the sun on a hot summer day to cool a sunburn. On the hair it can provide moisture to brittle, dry strands. 

To harvest the gel, cut off a leaf and wash it. Remove the thorny spines and skin with a knife or a vegetable peeler. Make sure you remove the white layer underneath. With a spoon scoop out the gel. Place in a blender and pulse until smooth. You can add honey ( to keep it for up to a year) or 500 mg of Vitamin C powder( to keep up to 90 days) per quarter cup at this point to preserve it. Place in your fridge.   

Try this recipe for your hair!

 Aloe Vera leave-in conditioner

1/4 cup of fresh aloe vera gel

1/4 cup of distilled water

1 tablespoon of glycerin

A few drops of rosemary or peppermint essential oil (optional)

Mix all the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well. Spray the conditioner on your damp hair after washing it. Comb through your hair gently and style as desired. Store the conditioner in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Try this for soft, supple skin;

1/4 cup of fresh aloe vera gel

2 tablespoons of coconut oil

1 tablespoon of beeswax

1 Vitamin E gel capsule( nip the end with scissors to expel) or 3 drops of the oil

1/2 teaspoon of honey

Melt the coconut oil, honey and beeswax in a double boiler over low heat stir well. Remove from heat and add the aloe vera gel. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Transfer it to a clean jar and let it cool completely. Apply a little moisturizer on your face and neck after toning.