How to Grow and Care for the Sabila Plant

The Sabila plant, most commonly known by its scientific name Aloe vera, is a succulent recognized globally. Native to the Arabian Peninsula, this plant has been used for millennia and is a popular houseplant due to its resilience and low maintenance needs. Its fleshy, serrated leaves contain a highly valued gel-like substance. Today, it is cultivated worldwide, thriving in warm, arid climates and inside homes.

Caring for Your Sabila Plant

As a succulent, Sabila thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. A south- or west-facing window is ideal, but too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, turning them yellow or red. Leggy or pale leaves indicate the plant is not receiving enough light. Indoors, provide six to eight hours of sunlight daily.

Sabila requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A potting mix formulated for cacti and succulents is an excellent choice, or you can add perlite or coarse sand to a standard potting mix to improve drainage. A terracotta pot is also beneficial, as its porous nature helps the soil dry out more evenly.

Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Let the top two inches of soil become dry to the touch. Overwatering is a common mistake and can be identified by mushy, brown leaves. In spring and summer, water every two to three weeks, reducing the frequency significantly in fall and winter.

Sabila plants prefer temperatures between 55 and 80°F (13 and 27°C) and are tolerant of dry air common in homes. While not heavy feeders, a balanced houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, can be provided once a month during the spring and summer growing season.

How to Harvest Sabila Gel

To harvest the gel, select a thick, mature leaf from the outer sections of the plant. Mature plants, those a few years old, have a higher concentration of active compounds. Use a clean, sharp knife to cut the leaf close to the main stem.

After cutting the leaf, drain the latex. Place the cut leaf upright in a container for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the yellowish liquid, known as aloin, to drip out. It is important to separate this from the clear gel.

Once drained, wash the leaf and place it on a clean surface. Use a knife to trim the serrated edges, then slice off the top layer of green skin to expose the gel. Scoop the clear gel away from the bottom leaf skin. The gel can be used immediately or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Common Uses and Benefits

The gel from the Sabila plant is widely used for skincare. It can soothe sunburns, as its cooling properties help reduce inflammation and discomfort. The gel also acts as a natural moisturizer, hydrating the skin without a greasy residue, making it suitable for various skin types.

Sabila gel is also used in hair care. Applied to the scalp, it can help reduce dandruff and soothe irritation due to its antimicrobial properties. The gel’s high water content hydrates the hair, functioning as a natural conditioner.

The gel’s uses extend to minor first aid. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties may aid in healing minor cuts and skin irritations. By forming a protective layer over a small wound, the gel can help shield it from bacteria.

Potential Risks and Considerations

The Sabila leaf contains two substances: the clear inner gel and the yellow latex found just beneath the skin. This latex contains aloin, a potent laxative that can cause stomach cramps, diarrhea, and electrolyte imbalance if ingested. For some individuals, the latex can also be a skin irritant, which is why it must be drained properly during harvesting.

Topical use of Sabila gel can cause an allergic reaction. People with allergies to plants in the lily family, like onions and tulips, may be more susceptible. Symptoms can include redness, itching, or a burning sensation. Perform a patch test by applying a small amount of gel to an inconspicuous area of skin before wider use.

Internal use of any Sabila product requires caution and professional medical advice. Sabila can interact with certain medications, including diuretics, diabetes drugs, and blood thinners. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and young children should avoid oral use of Sabila.