Have you ever wondered what happens when a leaf is cut from an aloe vera or aloe vera plant? Since there are several non-cacti or succulents that propagate by leaf cuttings, it is not uncommon to ask this question.
So if you’re curious, we’ll talk about that next. In addition, we will explain to you what the leaves of this plant are used for, so that you know why the leaves are sometimes cut.
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If an aloe vera leaf is cut, does it grow back or not?
Image – Wikimedia/Mokkie
The answer is no. Just as there are other plants, such as Echeveria or Sedum, that have the ability to root from a cut leaf, aloes do not. These succulents only propagate by seed, and sometimes by suckers and/or stem cuttings if they branch.
In the specific case of aloe vera, the most widely used method is that of the separation of discharges, because they grow quickly and, in addition, they are easy to separate from the mother plant. You can also sow its seeds, but to obtain an adult plant you have to wait at least 4 years, that is to say when you can already enjoy its leaves.
When can aloe leaves be cut?
As we have just said, we must arm ourselves with a little patience. Although it will not take much, because it is a plant that grows quite quickly. In fact, if it is a seedling, in about 4 years it will be ready; Yes if we bought it in a nursery, it is normal to sell specimens that are already at least 2 years old Well, that’s when they got to a certain size and they look really good.
Once we want to cut a leaf we will have to do it either with kitchen scissors or with a knife that we will have washed before using with water and a little washing-up liquid. In this way we will prevent infection.
How come?
The first thing you need to know is that you don’t have to cut the newest or oldest leaves. For you to enjoy its benefits, it is best to take the blackberries which are green and therefore healthy.
Once you have selected one, you can choose to cut only a piece, or the whole sheet, depending on the use you are going to give it; that is, if, for example, you want it so that a small wound heals faster, you will only need to cut off a piece of it; but if you want to moisturize the skin, then you will have to cut everything, starting from the base.
What are aloe vera leaves used for?
Aloe vera leaves are used in natural medicine, especially for heal minor wounds and moisturize the skin. It is also recommended to apply its gel if you suffer from acne, herpes (simple) or psoriasis.
In herbalists, and sometimes in some supermarkets, they sell aloe vera juice, which can be used in case of constipation, since the latex contained in the leaves acts as a laxative. Now, you have to be careful with this because if you have a delicate digestive tract, you might end up suffering from diarrhea or even colic.
How is aloe vera leaf consumed?
The taste of latex is bitter, one could even say that it is unpleasant, therefore, it is usually mixed between the ingredients of a saladeither vegetables or fruits. It can also be used to prevent mayonnaise from curdling, or even to make sauces thicker.
precautions
According to the Mayo Clinic Medical Portal, do not take more than 1 gram of latex per day, because we could have serious health problems, such as acute kidney failure. Similarly, it is not recommended for children under 12 to consume it.
In the case of taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, for diabetes, or laxatives among others, you should not consume aloe vera either.
Aloe vera leaves do not grow back when cut, but they will be replaced by others. Meanwhile, you can use them to get benefits for your health.