How To Get Aloe From a Plant

Pure aloe vera gel has been used for thousands of years to treat minor burns. Here's how to harvest it yourself, from an aloe vera plant.

: Taking aloe or aloe latex orally for laxative effects may lead to cramping or diarrhea.
Step 1: Cut off an aloe vera leaf Using a serrated knife, cut a large aloe vera leaf from a living plant. The leaf should be green and thick.
Step 2: Drain the liquid resin Hold the leaf cut side down and allow the liquid resin in the inner lining of the leaf to drip out.
TIP: Persons allergic to garlic and onions may have allergic reactions to aloe.
Step 3: Cut off the top layer Cut off the top layer of the leaf’s skin to expose the underlying layer of aloe vera gel.
Step 4: Cut away the sides of the leaf Cut away the skin from the two sides of the leaf.
Step 5: Remove the gel Cut the layer of gel away from the bottom layer of skin and place it in a cup.
FACT: Some taxonomists have suggested that aloe vera is an ancient hybrid and not a naturally developed species.