The Aloe Vera plant has long figured in potions and healing tonics and creams used by people around the world.  It was even an essential part of the beauty regimen of one of the most beautiful women of all time - Queen Cleopatra.  This plant belongs to the lily family and is readily found in warmer climates around the world.  Inside its leaves, you will find a clear pulp, which is actually gel-like in nature.  This gel holds a wealth of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and enzymes and is uncannily a close match to our skin’s pH balance.  Thus, it is able to moisturize and heal.  It enables the healthy production of new cells and the repair of damaged tissue.   It can be applied topically or eaten.  Believers of this plant claim that it can help regulate the digestive system and bring the immune system to its best fighting form.  It is no surprise that aloe vera is called the Miracle Plant. 

It is quite easy to grow this plant in your backyard, or even just outside your window.  Once you have the plant, you can use this to make skin care “products” you can make it your own kitchen.  

Aloe Vera Moisturizer Blend one large leaf of aloe vera along with a teaspoon of plain yogurt, a slice of papaya and a tablespoon of honey. Another version is to mix 3 tablespoons of aloe vera with 2 tablespoons of ground oatmeal. You can then apply your preferred mixture to your face, wait for at least five minutes before you wash it off with warm water.

Aloe Vera Toner Get some aloe vera gel or juice and place on a cotton ball. Apply this to the face to keep it fresh and smooth and to get rid of excess oil. This works well with normal and oily skin. Now, if you have sensitive skin, instead of one part aloe vera, you should make a mixture of half aloe vera and half spring water.

Aloe Vera Exfoliant Take one tablespoon of aloe vera gel and gently mix this with a tablespoon each of ground almonds, oats and honey. Apply this on the face using circular movements. Let it dry for a few minutes, then wash it off with lukewarm water. Another option would be to mix aloe vera sap or gel with one tablespoon of baking soda. Slowly add in more baking soda until you get a consistency that is similar to a smooth paste. Use this to scrub your face with circular motions. Then wash it off with lukewarm water. You can also use this mixture to exfoliate the rest of your body.

Aloe Vera Face Mask Mix three tablespoons of aloe vera sap with one drop of Helycrisum essential oil and one drop of rose essential oil. Blend well and apply both on the face and the neck. Wait a few minutes before rinsing it off.

Aloe Vera Body Cream Blend in 1 cup of aloe vera gel with 1 teaspoon each of Vitamin E and lanolin using a food processor or a blender. Heat 1½ teaspoon essential oil, 1/3 cup coconut oil and ¾ ounce beeswax before you add it to the previous mixture. Heat the mixture again so that no clumps or large pieces are left. Add ¾ cup almond oil and reheat, if necessary. To thin it out, put it in the blender again.

Yes, you can enjoy youthful-looking and vibrant skin using these homemade skin care products. And the good thing about this is that you can do so without spending a lot of money. Do try it and you will immediately see the difference that aloe vera can make on your skin!