**Aloe vera leaves are not a vegetable, but to simplify the search on our website, they have been added to this category.

Aloe vera leaves come from the succulent plant of the same name, native to North Africa, but widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. They are characterized by their thick, elongated shape, often edged with small spines on the sides. The leaves contain a transparent gel, rich in active compounds such as polysaccharides, enzymes and antioxidants, which give aloe vera its health-giving properties. Used for thousands of years for medicinal and cosmetic purposes, aloe vera leaves are renowned for their soothing, moisturizing, healing and anti-inflammatory properties. They are commonly used in the manufacture of skin care products, after-sun lotions, moisturizing gels and nutritional supplements.

Aloe vera leaves have a fascinating history stretching back thousands of years. Used since ancient times by various civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, Romans and Indians, they were revered for their healing and medicinal properties. The ancient Egyptians called it the "plant of immortality" and used it in their mummification practices, while the Greeks and Romans used it to treat a variety of ailments, from burns to skin ailments. Over time, this plant has travelled the world through trade and exploration, finding its place in the traditional pharmacopoeias of many cultures. Today, it continues to be used in both traditional medicine and the modern skincare industry, thanks to its multiple health benefits and cosmetic properties.

Nutritional highlights of aloe vera leaf

Aloe vera leaves are a wealth of essential nutrients. They contain a range of vitamins, including A, C, E, B1, B2, B3, B6 and B9, which support skin, eye and immune system health. In addition, they are rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper and potassium, which are crucial for bone, muscle and cardiovascular health. The enzymes present in aloe vera aid digestion by promoting the movement of food through the digestive system. What's more, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds present in aloe vera help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, supporting overall health.

Choosing and storing aloe vera leaves

When choosing an aloe vera leaf, opt for those that are thick and fleshy, without blemishes or damage. Prefer green leaves, well filled with gel. To store, keep in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight. You can also store it in a perforated plastic bag in the fridge to extend its shelf life.

Tips for preparing aloe vera leaf

To prepare an aloe vera leaf, start by washing it under running water to remove any dirt. Next, trim off the prickly edges and gently peel away the green skin to reveal the translucent gel inside. Use a sharp knife to extract the gel and use it as is, or mix it with other ingredients to create skincare products or health drinks.

Why choose organic aloe vera leaves?

There are several advantages to choosing organic aloe vera leaves. They are grown without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers, reducing exposure to potentially harmful chemical residues. What's more, organic plants are often grown under environmentally-friendly conditions, preserving biodiversity and soil health. As a result, organic aloe vera leaves offer a purer product, free from chemical contaminants, while supporting sustainable farming practices.