The quality and efficacy of Aloe Vera gel are determined by its polysaccharide content and composition (acemannan), which varies according to the plant’s life cycles and climatic conditions. Therefore, it is essential to use products where the quality of the aloe is guaranteed from cultivation and harvesting to the final product.
Although Aloe Vera is native to East Africa, specifically the Arabian Peninsula, it has found the ideal habitat in Fuerteventura to grow healthily and with a high amount of acemannan. This medicinal plant, with its short, thick stem, stores water in its leaves and is used for health and beauty, notably for its dermatological properties.
To extract Aloe Vera gel, the first step is to carefully select the leaves. It is advisable to use the lower, thicker, outer leaves, as they have the most properties.
Aloin is extracted by ‘bleeding’ or by incisions in the epidermis of fresh leaves. Intense yellow in color, it is rich in hydroxyanthracene derivatives with laxative effects. The pulp or aloe gel is a nearly transparent mucilaginous substance from inside aloe leaves, commonly used in hygiene, cosmetics, and in the treatment of various skin problems.
Studies published in recent years show that aloe gel is very effective in:
- Healing wounds, first and second-degree burns, sunburns, eczema, acute dermatitis, skin irritations, and abrasions.
- Promoting hydration, healing, and regeneration of the skin, and reducing inflammation and pain, due to its moisturizing, healing, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antiviral action.
- Aloe gel is also a common ingredient in many hygiene and cosmetic products due to its moisturizing and emollient properties and its anti-aging effect.
- If using the plant at home, the central part of the pulp should be applied to the skin, avoiding the part under the rind, as aloin can cause allergies, dermatitis, and photosensitization (skin alterations caused by the sun’s UV radiation).
