You might know aloe vera as a skincare plant – but did you know that the inner gel of the leaves is also edible? When prepared correctly, it can support your digestion, hydrate your body, and be a fresh ingredient for smoothies or detox drinks.
Important: Use only the clear inner gel, not the green outer shell! The irritating aloin must be completely removed.
What is Aloe Vera?
Aloe vera is a desert plant famous for its moisturizing gel. This gel is found inside its thick leaves and is used worldwide in cosmetics, drinks, and dietary supplements.
In the food sector, only the peeled inner gel is used, which is mild, refreshing and slightly gel-like.
Nutrients & Effects
Aloe gel consists mainly of water and contains, among other things:
- Antioxidants
- small amounts of vitamins and minerals
- Amino acids
- secondary plant compounds
Positive qualities:
- supports healthy digestion
- It has a gentle hydrating effect.
- can soothe the stomach and mucous membranes
- ideal for light detox drinks
Nutritional values per 100 g:
- Energy value: 4 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 0.9 / 0.3 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0.1 g
- Dietary fiber: 0.2 g
Taste & Texture
Aloe gel has a very mild, almost neutral taste, with a slightly fresh touch.
The consistency is soft and gel-like – similar to clear jelly.
Perfect for:
- Smoothies
- cold drinks
- fresh bowls
- light desserts
Purchasing & Storage
Shopping:
- You can get aloe leaves in some organic shops, Asian shops or online.
- Look for thick, juicy leaves without any brown spots.
Storage:
- Uncut leaves will keep for 5-7 days in the refrigerator.
- The pure gel will keep for about 2 days in a sealed glass jar; it is best to use it fresh.
Use in the kitchen
Before using aloe, please note the following:
✔ Eat only the inner gel
The green peel and the yellowish juice (aloin) must not be processed.
How to safely prepare aloe:
- Wash the leaves and cut off the ends.
- Remove the peel generously.
- Dissolve the clear gel.
- Rinse off the gel thoroughly.
- Cut into pieces or blend directly.
Recipe ideas:
- Aloe citrus detox drink
- Aloe-coconut smoothie
- Watermelon Aloe Refresher
- Aloe yogurt with honey & lime
Ideal in combination with Nutrilovers kitchen gadgets
Because aloe gel is very soft, it is perfect for:
- Slow Juicer → Aloe juice + apple, cucumber or lemon
- Blender → creamy smoothies with aloe gel
- Air fryer → not suitable
- Ice cube maker → Aloe ice cubes for summer drinks
- Bread machine → natural hydration (mixed in water) if you want to experiment
Fun Facts
- Aloe Vera was already called the "plant of immortality" in ancient Egypt.
- A single aloe leaf can contain over 500 ml of gel!
- In many Asian countries, aloe gel is a popular dessert ingredient.
Conclusion – why you should use aloe vera more often
Aloe vera is light, refreshing, and versatile. The inner gel is especially fantastic for drinks and smoothies, supports gentle digestion, and helps your body stay well-hydrated.
If you want to add variety to your healthy drinks, aloe is an exciting and natural ingredient.
