Beyond being regarded as the “plant of immortality” due to its numerous health & medicinal benefits, aloe vera has other meanings. We all relate aloe vera to soothing sunburnt skin or improving skin-related activities.
Did you know, however, that some types of aloe vera are edible? Not all species of this wonderful plant are good enough to eat; thus, knowing the different types becomes much safer regarding health and wellness.
This article discusses which aloe vera plant is edible, the health benefits and side effects, and methods of preparing aloe vera gel for safe consumption. But before we move forward, it becomes important to understand whether these leaves are even safe to eat.
Are Aloe Vera Leaves Safe to Eat?
One of the widely used edible aloe vera you can find is the Aloe barbadensis miller. It has fleshy leaves and an internal nutrient-rich gel. However, there are different species of aloe vera, and not all have edible components in their structures. Some species contain a relatively high amount of aloin, which is contained in the yellow latex that lingers between the skin and the gel and has decidedly toxic effects when taken in too much quantity.
When taking an aloe vera plant as an edible, accurately identify the plant you have bought from your reliable store or an excellent source. Do not take any wild aloe unless you are very sure of its identity to rule out consumption that is not safe.
Health Benefits of Edible Aloe Vera
Digestive Health
This aloe vera is a magical plant with many healthy benefits. It is quite comprehensive and soothing to the whole digestive system. The anti-inflammatory properties of the enzyme-containing gel may provide some respite from irritation in the stomach and intestines, as they can work on problems such as acid reflux, IBS, and even constipation.
Immune Support
Composed of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, edible aloe vera contributes to a robust immune mechanism. Its polysaccharides may further improve white blood cell function, enabling the body to combat infections.
Blood Sugar Regulation
It effectively reduces fasting blood glucose levels and increases the body’s sensitivity to insulin. Aloe vera is a very powerful plant for blood sugar level management, and type 2 diabetic patients can utilize it.
Hydration and Detoxification
It is mainly water and, therefore, an excellent natural hydrator. Its detoxifying property clears the body of toxic wastes and contributes to kidney and liver health.
Skin Health
Aloe vera is widely used as a herbal topical for its skin benefits, but it can also be internally consumed for skin health. This has attributed qualities such as hydrating and anti-inflammatory to concerning acne reduction, a glowing complexion, and better wound healing.
Potential Dangers of Eating Aloe Vera
Digestive Issues
Inappropriate consumption of aloe vera latex may cause dehydration, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. All these can disturb the body’s electrolyte balance and pose other possible health hazards.
Toxicity
However, pure aloe vera contains this toxic yellow latex in high concentrations. Eating raw aloe vera causes kidney damage or makes already damaged organs worse.
Drug Interactions
Aloe vera tinkers with some medicines, including laxatives, diuretics, as well as diabetes medications. Additionally, it may be associated with adverse effects like low potassium levels or dangerously low blood sugar levels.
Allergic Reactions
Aloe vera allergies can cause symptoms like swelling, redness, and itching in certain people. Anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal allergic reaction, may occur in rare instances.
Safety Precautions When Consuming Aloe Vera
Remove the Latex
Let the leaf drain after cutting, and then wash the gel thoroughly to remove all the latex completely before consuming the aloe vera.
Moderation is Key
However, it must be ingested in a limited and controlled dose to avoid any possible risks of side effects arising from excessive aloe vera intake. Excessive ingestion or consumption of aloe vera may lead to death due to stomach shivering and toxicity.
Allergies and Sensitivities
First, you need to test a patch on your skin or take a lesser amount to see if this causes any allergic reaction before starting aloe vera.
Consult a Healthcare Professional
If you’re someone with some underlying health conditions or on certain medications, you should consult your doctor before you add aloe vera to your diet.
How to Harvest and Prepare Edible Aloe Vera Gel?
Harvesting the Leaf
- Choose a Healthy Leaf
Pick a mature, thick leaf from the aloe vera plant’s outer portion. The most gel is found in these leaves.
- Cut the Leaf
Cut the leaf near the plant’s base with a clean knife.
- Drain the Latex
Place the leaf upright in a bowl so that the yellow latex can dry completely- this is necessary because it may be a potentially toxic latex.
Extracting the Gel
- Rinse the Leaf
Wash it thoroughly under the running water to remove any dirt or leftover latex.
- Peel the Skin
Cut or peel very finely the green outer skin.
- Scoop the Gel
Use a spoon to get the gel out, which appears translucent.
Preparing for Consumption
- Blend the Gel
It should be well blended into a smooth consistency for drinks or smoothies.
- Add to Recipes
Add aloe vera gel to your meals-for salads, juices, and desserts-for extra health benefits.
Conclusion
Although edible aloe vera has many health benefits, aiding digestion, boosting immunity, and hydrating the body along with skin-it is important for all too mindful people to avoid eating it without adequate preparation for the elimination of the toxic latex. However, with the safety precautions and advice enclosed in the article, they can enjoy the benefits of the wonderful plant without fear.
Before consuming aloe vera, consult the physician about integrating this plant with the particular aims it intends to serve on individual health. It relies almost entirely on self-education and preparation, but edible aloe can now supplement wellness.
