How To Harvest Aloe Vera Gel

I have lived in Florida since the late 80’s.  While living in the south I have also had Aloe Vera plants growing in my yard.  I currently have over a dozen plants growing outside around my home.  In this hot and steamy climate these amazing succulents grow like a weed and spread very quickly.  I love this plant because it has so many wonderful uses, and it is the perfect treatment for burns, minor boo boos, or dry skin.

How To Harvest Aloe Vera Gel:

1. Cut off a healthy Aloe Vera leaf close to the plants center.
2. Slice it carefully along the center of the leaf, along its entire length.
3. Gently peel back the two cut edges.
4. Use a spoon to scrape the clear gel from the center of the leaf, then place it in a bowl.
   
   

   

   

   
   
   Aloe Vera Gel Tips and Uses:
   • At the center of the plant, the aloe vera leaves contain a thickest gel.
   • Do not use any gel with a green tinge.
   • Aloe Vera gel makes a wonderful shaving gel for gently shaving your legs.
   • It is a fantastic addictive for homemade facial masks.
   • Applied on your hair it can tame any fizze, and repair dry hair.
   • Aloe Vera gel makes a great oil free moisturizer, it’s a effective humectant increasing water retention in the skin.
   • It can be used to treat sunburn, it hydrates the skin for a quick recovery.
   • It is a magical skin brightener, and can decrease age spots.
   • I like to massage Aloe Vera gel into my feet and cover with socks for a moistening foot treatment.

   
   
   

   I truly enjoy cultivating my own aloe vera plants, and using this miracle gel.

   Do you grow Aloe Vera at home?  Do you have other uses for Aloe Vera gel?

   
   

   Smiles, Paula
   
   
   

   { Follow Me On Pinterest }Paula Parrish

DIY Refreshing Cooling Spray

Are you looking to Refresh and Cool Down?
As much as we enjoy the warm weather, the summer heat can leave your skin feeling sticking, dry and hot. This summer has started out especially hot in many states in the US. For a refreshing pick me up during the day, give this recipe a try. It is awesome to carry around with you, and mist lightly to cool and refresh your skin anytime. This spray can be used on your face, arms, and on the soles of your feet, whenever you’re feeling uncomfortably toasty.

Refreshing Cooling Spray

• 3 T. Aloe Vera Gel
• 3 T. Witch Hazel
• 3 T. Cranberry Juice
• 2 T. of Distilled Water
• 1 T. Vegetable Glycerin
• 2-3 Drops of Tangerine Essential Oil
• 1 Drop of Ginger Essential Oil

Combine all the ingredients in a bowl, and mix well. Pour into a mist sprayer bottle and shake well before each use. Store in a cool, dark place.

Aloe Vera Gel is rich in antioxidants, to help soothe skin and fight sun damage.

Witch Hazel to support your skin’s natural protection against drying elements.
Cranberry Juice contains a lot of vitamins and minerals which are good for your skin.  It’s like a fruit cocktail for the skin, refreshing, healthy and perfect for the summertime.
Vegetable Glycerin is good for your skin because it has strong humectant properties, meaning it is able to retain and bring moisture to your skin.
Tangerine and Ginger Essential Oil aromatherapy blend is sure to stimulate your mind, body, and spirit and naturally change your mood.

Love IT! This natural homemade “Refreshing Cooling Spray” feels so good cooling on my skin and the kids like it too.

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Smiles, Paula