Prepare Fresh Aloe Vera Leaf for Natural Hair Care

Aloe Vera is a remarkable plant packed full of vitamins and enzymes that will improve your hair almost instantly. It makes your curls softer and more manageable. Are you suffering from dry itchy scalp or dull lifeless hair? Aloe made the list of my fall hair care tips due to its healing and conditioning properties, the instant results, and the fact that I love plants.

You can buy commercially prepared gels and liquid, but I prefer to use a fresh aloe vera leaf to get the amazing benefits of this plant on my hair and skin. Large leaves that are about 24” long with the most beneficial properties can be found at your local grocery store for only a few dollars. I want to encourage you to try using a fresh aloe vera leaf the next time you do your hair at home. The gel you get out of the plant can be used to make your own products at a low cost with great results.
In this short video I show you how to cut the leaf open and remove the gel for use in your natural hair regimen

Cutting the leaf yourself may feel intimidating at first, but it is easy. If you can cook, you can do this. The cost is a little cheaper than purchasing bottled gels or liquid, but the benefits of the freshness are priceless. So next time you run across one at one at the grocery pick it up, take it home, and try it out after watching my short demo video. Let me know if you have more question in the comments. Also let me know your experience with fresh verses bottled gels. I’ve only used the fresh leaf.
Of course, I also recommend taking it internally for whole body health. You do want to avoid the yellowish gel found closest to the leaf. I was able to scrape out enough gel to use for about three conditioning treatments and refrigerate a couple of ounces to drink with water and smoothies. It will keep for 2-3 days refrigerated.
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​Before ingesting please do more research on your own and consult a physician if you have serious health issues. Some parts of the gel are poisonous.  The effects can be harsh if not taken properly, ie. serious stomach cramping. I explain a little further in the video how to adjust for consumption. After blending the gel in a blender to get a more liquid consistency, I add an ounce or so to 8oz of water or 4oz of orange juice. I feel like the aloe gives me more energy.

Aloe can be used directly on your hair and scalp or it can be combined with your favorite carrier oil, essential oils, or conditioner. Here are a few common uses and recipes for you to try.

Conditioner – Combine equal parts aloe vera gel and olive oil. Apply liberally to your hair and scalp. Leave on for 30 minutes. Rinse well.
Scalp treatment – Apply gel directly to your scalp. It balances the pH level eliminating dandruff. Leave on for 30 minutes. Rinse well.
Leave in Conditioner – Combine aloe vera gel with equal parts water and a few drops of your favorite essential oil to mask the not so great smell of the aloe vera. Apply thoroughly to curls to combat frizz and style.  
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Benefits
Eliminates frizz
Balances pH
Antioxidant and antibacterial properties for scalp
Improves skin/scalp
xo

Learn Easy Natural Hair Care @naturallyyousalon
If you would like to learn ways to grow and maintain healthy natural hair, then follow me on Instagram @naturallyyousalon. I post a few times per week. I provide advice to women with natural hair on how make natural hair care easy.
I like working with women who are looking for more than just a style, but are interested in keeping their hair healthy for the long haul. 
To learn more about how I can help you grow and maintain healthy natural hair, please go to my online services page or contact me: [email protected]
xo