**Albuquerque Aloe: High Sun Burning Summer Savings?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe relentless Albuquerque sun can be brutal. We all know the feeling: that tight, burning sensation that signals you’ve spent a little too long enjoying the Sandia Mountains or a Isotopes game. While sunscreen is essential, sometimes, despite our best efforts, sunburn happens. But before you reach for that expensive, mass-produced aloe vera gel from the drugstore, consider a local, more potent, and surprisingly accessible solution: Albuquerque aloe.
This article will explore using locally-sourced Albuquerque aloe vera to treat sunburns, focusing on how New Mexicans can best utilize this readily available resource for affordable summer skin relief. We’ll cover identifying the correct aloe species, safely harvesting it within Albuquerque city limits and surrounding areas, and creating DIY sunburn remedies with detailed instructions and safety precautions.
First, let’s be clear: not all aloe is created equal. The Aloe genus is vast, but for sunburn relief, you want Aloe barbadensis Miller, commonly known as true aloe vera. It’s the one with the thick, fleshy leaves containing the clear gel prized for its healing properties. In Albuquerque, you’ll often find it growing in gardens, sometimes even escaping into the wild, particularly in older neighborhoods like the North Valley or near the Rio Grande.
Identifying Aloe barbadensis is crucial. Look for lance-shaped, grey-green leaves with serrated edges. These leaves grow in a rosette pattern. When mature, the plant may produce a tall flower stalk with yellow or orange tubular flowers, though this is less common in Albuquerque’s climate. Avoid confusing it with other succulents that might resemble aloe but lack its medicinal properties. A common mistake is mistaking Agave plants for aloe. Agave leaves are generally much larger, thicker, and have sharper spines.
Now, about harvesting. While aloe might be growing in public spaces, always err on the side of caution and respect private property. If you spot aloe growing on someone’s land, ask for permission before harvesting. Many Albuquerque residents are happy to share, especially if you explain your purpose. If you have aloe growing in your own yard, even better!
The best time to harvest aloe is in the morning. Choose mature, outer leaves that are at least a few inches long. Using a clean, sharp knife, cut the leaf as close to the base of the plant as possible. Avoid damaging the rest of the plant.
A critical step often overlooked is draining the aloin. Aloin is a yellowish, bitter liquid found just beneath the outer skin of the aloe leaf. It’s a natural laxative and can cause skin irritation in some people. To drain the aloin, stand the cut leaf upright in a container for about 10-15 minutes. The yellow liquid will drip out. Discard this liquid.
Next, prepare the aloe gel. Wash the leaf thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Using a sharp knife or vegetable peeler, carefully remove the outer skin of the leaf, exposing the clear gel inside. You can then scoop out the gel with a spoon or cut it into smaller pieces.
Now, for the sunburn remedy. The simplest method is to apply the fresh aloe vera gel directly to the affected skin. Gently massage it in and allow it to air dry. The cooling and soothing effects should be almost immediate. Repeat this several times a day for best results.
For a more potent remedy, consider adding a few drops of lavender essential oil to the aloe vera gel. Lavender has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can further aid in healing. Mix well before applying. Be sure to use pure, therapeutic-grade lavender oil.
Another option is to create an aloe vera and cucumber mask. Cucumber has cooling and hydrating properties that complement aloe vera perfectly. Blend equal parts aloe vera gel and peeled cucumber in a blender until smooth. Apply the mixture to the sunburned skin and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing with cool water.
While aloe vera is generally safe, some people may experience allergic reactions. Before applying it to a large area of skin, test a small amount on your inner arm and wait 24 hours to see if any irritation occurs. If you experience redness, itching, or swelling, discontinue use.
One common mistake is applying aloe vera to broken skin. While aloe vera can help heal minor burns, it’s not recommended for open wounds. If your sunburn is severe and involves blistering or broken skin, consult a doctor.
Another pitfall is improper storage. Fresh aloe vera gel will only last for a few days in the refrigerator. To extend its shelf life, consider freezing it in ice cube trays. This way, you can easily thaw out small portions as needed.
Beyond sunburn relief, Albuquerque aloe vera can also be used for other skin conditions, such as minor cuts, scrapes, and insect bites. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties make it a versatile addition to any natural first-aid kit.
Finding aloe in Albuquerque isn’t as hard as you might think. Check local nurseries like Jericho Nursery or Osuna Nursery. They often carry Aloe barbadensis plants. You can also ask neighbors or friends who have aloe growing in their yards if they’re willing to share a leaf or two.
Remember, responsible harvesting is key. Only take what you need and avoid damaging the plant. By utilizing this readily available resource, you can enjoy the benefits of natural sunburn relief while supporting local sustainability.
So, next time you find yourself with a sunburn after a day exploring Petroglyph National Monument, remember the power of Albuquerque aloe. It’s a natural, affordable, and effective way to soothe your skin and embrace the healing power of the desert. Ditch the drugstore gel and discover the local secret to sunburn relief. Your skin will thank you.