Affectionately dubbed the “plant of immortality” by the Egyptians more than 6,000 years ago, the aloe vera plant remains every bit as relevant today as it was in ancient times. The spiky, green gem has a rich history of use in various cultures who employed the plant’s moist middle for a wide variety of medicinal and cosmetic uses.

Their enthusiasm isn’t hard to understand. Aloe vera is widely regarded as a medicinal superstar, producing at least six natural antiseptics with the power to kill mold, bacteria, fungi and viruses. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, protects against sun damage, heals wounds and even works as a powerful laxative.

To use it, cut off the spiky top and sides as well as the white part of the leaf at the bottom. Then split the leaves lengthwise down the middle to release the gel inside. Wash the gel to get rid of dirt…