An aloe vera plant hung over the door frame was a common sight in Indian households in the past. The practice exists even today, although most people have shifted the plant to pots.
According to Chennai-based consultant dietician Dr Dharini Krishnan, aloe vera is “full of antioxidants.” It’s especially good for the summer, since this is the season when the body is prone to infections, according to Krishnan. She adds that when consumed, aloe vera has the potential to cool the system.
“The gel can be applied on the skin to treat rashes, boils, and dandruff,” she explains.
The plant is extensively used in Ayurvedic medicine. According to Dr Prasan Shankar, Indian Institute of Ayurvedic Medicine & Research, Bengaluru, aloe vera can be used in juice, pulp, decoction, or fermented forms.
“The pulp is used to treat external burns across the country,” he says. In the fermented form, aloe vera is used to treat liver and gynaecological disorders, according to Shankar.
Chennai’s beaches have several vendors offering aloe vera juice, that’s popular with morning walkers and joggers. Here’s something you can try with it at home.
ALOE VERA PUNCH
Ingredients
1 Cucumber
1 Lemon
1 Orange
fresh Mint
250 ml Coconut Water
150 ml Aloe Vera Juice
5 ml Honey
Directions
Muddle cucumber, organge , lemon & mint gently.
Pour coconut water, aloe vera juice & honey in to the mixing glass.
After adding all ingredients, shake & pour through a strainer into Collins glass.
ALOE VERA MATCHA POPSICLE
Detox, healthy green smoothie popsicles. White wooden rustic background, overhead, top view, flat lay
Ingredients
8 gms matcha powder
60 ml aloe vera juice
120 ml full cream milk
Directions
Stir Matcha powder in boiling water for a concentrated mixture.
Once cooled, pour into the full cream milk and mix.
Pour aloe vera juice into popsicle mould.
Pour cooled matcha mixture into mould.
Freeze for 4-6 hours.
Recipes courtesy Suraj Kumar, F&B Manager, The Park, Chennai
