Aloe Vera

In the traditional medicine of many contemporary cultures, such as China, India, the West Indies, and Japan aloe vera leaf gel is used topically or orally to treat skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, acne, burns, and infections as well as gastrointestinal disorders and inflammatory diseases such as arthritis. Scientific studies have identified over 75 active ingredients in the gel including amino acids, anthraquinones, enzymes, hormones, sterols, and vitamins. The synergistic effect of these is believed to embue aloe vera with antioxidant, antimicrobial, antitumour, wound healing, and antidiabetic properties.

Aloe vera thrives in the heat and mineral-rich soils of Lizq Oasis. Although aloe can grow in a wide range of habitats, it is thought that aloe’s adaptation for survival in semi-arid conditions, enhances the fluid content and medicinal potency of its succulent leaf tissue. This is borne out by the early maturing and flowering of aloe in the Lizq plantation at two-three years. We use only natural fertilisers and green manures in our plantation and no chemical pesticides.

At maturity the tapering leaf measures 60cm in length, 8-10 cm in width at the base and weighs around 800g. The waxy pea-green outer rind protects the pure crystalline inner gel. For maximum freshness and to preserve the gel’s active ingredients, we harvest according to demand, peeling off the outer leaves carefully by hand to minimise water loss to the remaining plant. Refrigerated, the cut leaf remains fresh in a zip lock bag up to two weeks and the filleted gel in an airtight container for at least a week.

Check out our blog section for tips on how to incorporate aloe vera into your health and beauty routine.