Aloe vera is a tropical plant known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties. Similar to a cactus, the leaves of the plant are thick with a pulpy interior. You use the pulp as a topical remedy, but you can also drink aloe vera juice to treat constipation, according to Linda B. White, M.D., author of “The Herbal Drug Store.” You make aloe vera juice by boiling the leaves to dissolve the pulp. Boiling aloe vera is not difficult, but you want to avoid using too much water, which can dilute the juice.
Cut the aloe vera leaves into large chunks on a clean cutting board with the knife. Cutting the leaves down helps dissolve the pulp easier.
Place the chunks in the pot. The size of the pot depends on the amount of aloe you use. The aloe should fill the pot no more than halfway.
Add enough distilled water to the pot to cover the aloe leaves. Avoid using tap water which could be hard or contain chemicals such as chlorine and fluoride.
Cover the pot with the lid and set it on high to boil. Let the aloe boil for one minute then reduce the heat to medium.
Keep the aloe at medium and stir often to break up the leaves. Remove the pot when the leaves are pulp and the liquid starts to boil.
Tip
To store the juice, let the liquid cool to room temperature, pour it through a mesh strainer into a large container with a pour spout, then pour the strained liquid through a funnel into a plastic bottle. Discard the solid matter.
Warning
Consult your physician before using aloe vera juice as a laxative, especially if you are a diabetic. Aloe vera juice may cause abdominal cramping.
References
- "The Herbal Drug Store"; Linda B. White, M.D., et al.; June 2000
Writer Bio
Max Whitmore is a personal trainer with more than three years experience in individual and group fitness. Whitmore has a Bachelor of Arts in English literature from the University of Cincinnati, fitness certifications and dietetics training from Cincinnati State Technical and Community College. Whitmore has written for several online publishers.