Though the plant itself has been famed as the ‘plant of immortality’ throughout time, it is not immortal itself and does expire over time just like any other plant or organic matter. The shelf life depends on what form of aloe vera you decide to use, and some have better shelf life than others. Aloe vera and its products can deteriorate over time until they expire and completely lose all the benefits they have to offer.
Benefits Of Aloe Vera Powder
Aloe vera powder is dried aloe vera leaves, ground down into a powder. It can be used in many different types of products and can be used for both internal and external parts of the body. Aloe vera contains vitamins, enzymes, minerals, sugars, salicylic acids, and amino acids that all help maintain healthy digestion and support the immune system.
Benefits of Aloe Vera:
- High in antioxidants
- High in vitamin C
- Absorbs in the bloodstream easily
- Can heal skin
- Improves skin’s elasticity
- Reduces irritation in the digestive tract
- Offers an immunity boost
Does Aloe Vera Powder Go Bad?
While aloe vera is a hardy plant when in its natural plant form, once the gel has been harvested, it will go bad over time and if not stored properly. To avoid getting a potential stomach ache or having your aloe vera lose its nutritional value and potency, learn how to preserve and store your aloe vera so you can reap all of its benefits.
Storing Aloe Vera
The same way that most fresh ingredients are likely to expire faster than processed ones, aloe vera is no different. It lasts based on the product form, other substances like preservatives, and the method in which it’s stored. Always make sure to read the manufacturer’s label to make sure you are storing it properly and have an expiration date to go off of.
- Aloe vera gel can be stored for up to 2-3 years, in a cool, dry place without being in direct sunlight. In order to keep it from drying out, make sure the lid is tightly fastened after use. Always make sure your hands are clean prior to use to avoid contaminating the gel if it is stored in a tub. If your gel dries out, it loses its active ingredients and will not be effective anymore.
- If your aloe vera juice or extract was refrigerated at the grocery store, like any refrigerated product you purchase and bring home, you should also store it in your refrigerator. If it is not refrigerated at the store, check the expiration date on the label. Unopened aloe juice/extract should have a shelf life of 1-3 years. Once you have opened your juice or extract, you should refrigerate the product after using and make sure to use it within 2-4 weeks, depending on the preservatives.
- Aloe vera powder capsules should last 2+ years. Make sure to always read the instructions on the packaging and store in a cool, dry place, and avoid any moisture. Do not store capsules in the refrigerator to avoid reducing the quality of the ingredients and keep away from potential condensation.
How To Tell Your Aloe Vera Has Expired
- If your raw aloe vera leaf has become discolored, smells “off”, has lost its moisture, and has any signs of mold, throw it away immediately.
- With any store purchased aloe vera products, they may not show any color or smell change, so make sure to look at the expiration date that is on the packaging. Always err on the side of caution if you are in doubt of how old your aloe vera product is and do not use it if it is questionable.
Quality Aloe Vera Powder
Different forms of aloe vera can be used based on what you are looking to use it for. Applying a gel topically can help soothe your skin, aid in healing, offer pain relief, and take away inflammation. Powder will be more beneficial to help with digestion and boost your immune system. Either way you decide to use your aloe vera, it’s always important to read the packaging labels for expiration dates and how to store it properly. Aloe vera is a highly versatile plant and can be used in many different products, for your own DIY products made at home, as supplements, or ingredients for your skin care line.
At Aloe Laboratories, we maintain our own aloe vera farm and production site, allowing us to craft the best products possible while keeping bulk and wholesale prices low. We proudly produce aloe vera gel, juice, and powder specific to every client’s needs and believe in the many different benefits that aloe vera has to offer.
If you’re interested in our products, or how aloe vera can improve your own line of products, contact us for more information on bringing aloe vera into your home or business.