Aloe vera smoothie

This easy to make aloe vera smoothie is a healthy drink that soothes digestion and speeds your metabolism. It is packed with nutrients that keep you healthy and hydrated. 

Aloe vera has its place on my windowsill for years. It’s the most undemanding plant I have in my household. I often use it for any scrapes, scratches, or sunburns. It is a great moisturizer too so I love to add it to my toners or creams but honestly, I have never eaten it. Until recently when I came across an article describing all the benefits of aloe vera when used internally. It made me curious and I started to research further. So can you actually eat aloe vera? Yes, you can but here are few things that you better know before starting to eat your favorite plant. 

How to eat aloe vera

First of all not all aloe plants are edible. There are different varieties of Aloe vera, and the common variety that is meant to be applied to the skin for burns is not meant to be eaten. If you are not sure follow these identifying instructions that clearly explain the difference with images. 

Secondly, not all parts of aloe vera leaves are edible. The leaf is comprised of three parts – the skin, the gel, and the latex. While gel and outer skin are perfectly safe to eat the latex (thin layer of yellow liquid between the skin and the gel) is toxic.  It contains laxative properties with fatal side effects. Therefore any traces of yellowish liquid latex needs to be removed completely before consuming aloe vera gel or leaf. 

How does aloe vera taste?

The third important thing you need to know before making any smoothie or other type of recipes with aloe is its taste. In general aloe vera is bitter. While some people find its taste interesting for some it is very bitter to eat.

The best way to eat it is actually in the form of a smoothie. When you learn all its benefits you will just enjoy this unique plant with all its benefits.

Aloe vera in smoothie benefits

Aloe vera medicinal uses are dated back to ancient Egypt. Nowadays, researchers are beginning to unlock its benefits. It can also be added to the smoothie in its powdered form.

Aloe vera smoothie for constipation

In addition to being an excellent moisturizer, aloe vera is also considered a natural laxative that aids digestion and relieves constipation (1) 

Lower blood sugar

According to this study aloe vera reduce blood sugar levels and is therefore considered as a solution for a future diabetes type 2 treatment.

Promote clear skin

Aloe vera can improve overall skin health. In addition, it can help with certain skin conditions like acne or psoriasis. 

I love to use aloe vera on my skin as it makes it healthy and glowing. No wonder I add it to my nourishing cream and facial toner. 

Keeps you hydrated

Aloe vera is water-dense and regular drinking can help to keep you hydrated.

Other Ingredients in the smoothie

Beetroot powder

There are 3 reasons I selected beetroot powder as a main ingredient in this aloe smoothie

1. Nutritional supplement, beetroot powder is packed with vitamins and minerals that give the aloe smoothie the right balance of nutrients
2. As a natural sweetener, beetroot powder contains sugars such as fructose and glucose that add sweetness to aloe smoothie.
3. A natural colorant- Its radiant color serves as a great natural dye for any food and works excellent for our aloe smoothie. 

Coconut juice

a delicious source of hydration coconut juice has antioxidant properties and is a good source of nutrients such as fiber, vitamin C, and other minerals.

Raspberries & Strawberries

Frozen berries are low in calories and sugar but high in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins which make them ideal fruits for our healthy aloe smoothie. 

how to make a smoothie with aloe vera

First step

Wash aloe vera leaf thoroughly under running water

Second step

With a sharp knife or scissors remove the thorny parts on the both sides

Third step

Use the same knife to remove one side of the outer leaf. 

Fourth step

If you are using fresh aloe vera that you pluck from the plant, let the latex drip from the cut leaf into the sink for 10 minutes

Fifth step

Scrape the gel using a knife or spoon.

The gel inside should be white or clear in color free of any yellow latex

Now you gel is ready to be used in our smoothie

Please avoid using aloe vera skin care gel as these are not meant to be eaten. They are made to be used in skincare only.

Sixth step

Add aloe vera gel, frozen raspberries, strawberries, beetroot powder and coconut water into a blender.

Seventh step

Blend for 1 minute until you reach desired consistency. 

Serve immediately.

Tips to enjoy this sloe vera juice smoothie the most

• Use a powerful blender like Vitamix that makes the smoothie smooth without any lumps. 
• Drink it right away, when cool and freshly made
• I prefer to use frozen berries rather than fresh as it makes it cold and creamy. Alternatively use ice cubes to achieve a similar result.