how to store aloe vera gel for long time - #17429
I am looking for advice on how to store aloe vera gel for long time because I’ve been trying to figure out the best way to keep it fresh. I had this huge aloe vera plant in my backyard and it was thriving until one day, I thought, hey, why not start making homemade aloe vera gel? I tried it out and it was great at first! I used it for sunburns and even in smoothies, but now I have a ton of it and I don’t know how to store aloe vera gel for long time. My friend said it can go bad quickly, so I freaked out a little. I kept it in the fridge but there still seems to be this weird smell coming from it. I read online that you can add vitamin E or even essential oils to help preserve it? But I'm not sure how much to add. Also, I keep thinking maybe freezing could work too, but then I’m worried the texture will change when it thaws. How to store aloe vera gel for long time without losing its benefits is driving me a bit crazy! If anyone has experience or tips, especially if you’ve tried different methods, please share! Thanks!
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Doctors' responses
To store aloe vera gel for an extended period while maintaining its integrity can be a bit of a challenge but it is definitely doable. If you’ve already prepared the gel, one of the most effective strategies is refrigeration. Make sure you store the gel in an airtight container to limit exposure to air, which can cause oxidation and spoilage. Adding natural preservatives like vitamin C or vitamin E can extend its shelf life. A commonly used proportion is about 500 mg of vitamin C powder or one vitamin E capsule per cup of aloe vera gel. Mixing a few drops of essential oils like rosemary or tea tree oil, known for their antimicrobial properties, might also help, but be mindful of sensory changes they might impart. Freezing is another workable option, though, as you mentioned, it can alter the gel’s texture when thawed. To manage this, freeze the gel in ice cube trays and once frozen, transfer to a zip-lock bag. This way, you can thaw small amounts as needed without affecting the entire batch. The small textural changes won’t significantly affect its use for skin applications, although it might for smoothies. When dealing with a noticeable unusual smell, it might be a sign of spoilage, so it’s important to ensure containers and utensils used are sterile to prevent contamination. Remember, although adequate measures can extend the gel’s freshness, homemade aloe vera gel generally doesn’t keep as long as commercially preserved versions, so using it within a couple of weeks when refrigerated, or a few months when frozen, is advisable. Please keep in mind that if you notice significant changes in smell, color, or texture, it may be best to discard it to avoid any adverse effects.
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