How to preserve cut aloe vera: freeze it step by step

Aloe vera, also known as sábila, is a plant many people keep at home and use mainly for skin care. The problem comes when you cut a leaf and don't use all of it: the gel turns dark and spoils in a short time. Here we explain how to preserve aloe vera once it's cut and how to freeze it step by step.

Why does cut aloe vera spoil?

When you cut the leaf, the gel is exposed to the air. With air, light and heat it changes color, loses its texture and starts to smell different. That's why freshly scooped gel is best used the same day, and whatever is left over is kept cold.

How to freeze aloe vera step by step

Materials

• A large aloe vera leaf
• A very sharp knife
• A spoon
• An ice cube tray or a plastic container with a lid, ideally one with separate compartments

Preparation

1. Wash the leaf with water and dry it.
2. Stand it upright for a few minutes so the yellow liquid that comes out of the cut can drain. It is bitter and is not used.
3. With the knife, remove the spiny edges and the green skin. Be careful not to cut yourself on the tips.
4. With the spoon, scoop out the clear layer of gel without damaging it.
5. Put the gel in the tray or container. Since it is moldable, you can use your fingers to fit it into each compartment.
6. Cover the container and put it in the freezer.

This way you have ready-made portions: you take out only the one you are going to use and the rest stays frozen.

Does frozen aloe vera lose its properties?

Cold doesn't turn it into something else: it is still aloe vera gel. What does change is the texture, because once thawed it is more watery than fresh. That's why it's best to freeze it in small portions, use each one all at once and not refreeze one that has already thawed.

How to use frozen aloe vera

• On your skin: take out a portion, let it soften for a few minutes and apply it with a gentle massage. It helps you keep your skin hydrated.
• On your face: there are several homemade aloe vera recipes that add shine to the face. Rinse it off with warm water after about 30 minutes.
• On your feet: apply it before bed, with a massage, to refresh and soften the skin.

If you'd rather not deal with the leaf

Keeping fresh aloe vera takes work. If what you're looking for is aloe vera to take by mouth, in our store we have Lily of the Desert Aloe Vera Gel Inner Fillet, 16 oz.

For more details, call us at 787-304-0458.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.