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Extraction and Processing of Aloe Yellow Sap into Concentrated Paste

Aloe yellow sap (latex) contains aloin and other anthraquinones, which are used in pharmaceuticals, research, and some industrial applications. Below is a detailed breakdown of how aloe latex is extracted and processed into a concentrated paste.

1. Extraction of Aloe Latex

A. Harvesting and Preparation

Mature Aloe Leaves are selected (typically 3-5 years old for higher latex content).
The leaves are washed to remove dirt and debris. When the job is directly done at the aloe plantations, the cut aloe plants are placed in a gutter-type mold and there they begin to exude their sap.
When this job is done at the factory, the green rind is carefully sliced open to expose the inner leaf structure.

B. Collection of Yellow Sap (Latex)

The yellowish-brown latex oozes out from the pericyclic tubules (located just beneath the rind).
Methods to collect latex:
Manual Scraping: The sap is scraped off with a knife or blade.
Drip Collection: Leaves are hung vertically to let the latex drain into containers.
Pressing: Some industrial methods use mechanical pressing to extract more latex.

aloe yellow sap harvest - aloe latex harvest - aloe gum harvest

2. Processing into Concentrated Paste

A. Filtration & Purification

The raw latex is filtered to remove plant debris and impurities.
Activated charcoal or clay filtration may be used to remove excess pigments.

B. Concentration (Evaporation & Drying)

Low-Heat Evaporation

The liquid latex is gently heated (≤60°C / 140°F) to evaporate water, increasing concentration.
This prevents degradation of active compounds like aloin.

Spray Drying (Industrial Method)

The latex is spray-dried into a fine powder, which can later be reconstituted into paste.

Freeze Drying (For High-Purity Extracts)

Used in pharmaceutical-grade processing to preserve potency.

C. Final Paste Formation

The concentrated liquid is further thickened into a paste using:
Natural evaporation (sun drying in controlled conditions).
Addition of stabilizers (e.g., glycerin) for commercial products.

3. Industrial Refinement (Optional)

Decolorization: If a lighter-colored paste is needed, additional filtration with activated carbon is used.
Standardization: The aloin content is measured and adjusted for consistency (important for pharmaceutical use).

4. Uses of Concentrated Aloe Latex Paste

Industry	Application	Notes
Pharmaceutical	Laxative formulations (regulated)	Requires strict purity controls
Cosmetic	Exfoliating agents, antifungal treatments	Used in minimal amounts
Agriculture	Natural pesticide, livestock digestion aid	Must be diluted properly
Bitter Beverages	As a bitter agent	Paste or concentrate used

Main uses

5. Safety & Regulatory Considerations

Within FDA Regulations, aloin is banned in oral supplements in the U.S. (2018 FDA ruling), but allowed in topical cosmetics but restricted in concentration. Usually the limit is 10 PPM.

In the particular case of the European Union, the EU has established a maximum level of 1 ppm (part per million) for certain hydroxyanthracene derivatives (HADs), including aloe-emodin, emodin, and the sum of aloin A and aloin B, in aloe vera preparations used in food and food supplements. This regulation, specifically Regulation (EU) 2021/468, aimed to ensure food safety by limiting the presence of these potentially harmful substances.

These HADs are naturally occurring compounds found in aloe vera, particularly in the outer layers of the leaf. This Regulation (EU) 2021/468, which came into effect on April 8, 2021, prohibited the use of aloe preparations containing HADs in food and food supplements. The regulation mentioned that some HADs, like aloe-emodin and aloin, have been associated with potential health risks, including laxative effects and potential carcinogenic properties.

For the purpose of implementing the prohibition, the EU considered aloe preparations to “contain” HADs when the total aloin (A + B) present is > 1 ppm. This is also the lowest level that can be reliably quantified in laboratories.

However, the Regulation (EU) 2021/468, which restricted certain plant-based food and food supplements containing hydroxyanthracene derivatives (HADs), has been partially annulled by the European Court of Justice (ECJ).

The ECJ’s decision, specifically in case T-274/21, invalidated key sections of the regulation, impacting restrictions on aloe-emodin, emodin, and preparations from Aloe species leaves containing HADs.

The ECJ found that the European Commission’s interpretation of Article 8 of Regulation No 1925/2006, which was the basis for the restrictions, was inappropriate when applied to herbal “preparations”.

In essence, while the regulation (EU) 2021/468 set a 1 ppm limit for aloin in aloe preparations, that regulation has been annulled by the European Court of Justice, and those restrictions are no longer in place.

Conclusion

Aloe latex is extracted by collecting the yellow sap from the leaf’s outer layers, then processed into a concentrated paste through filtration, evaporation, and drying.

For more information please visit the concentrated aloe yellow sap specific page.

Aloe Vera INCI Names and Aloe Vera CAS Numbers

aloe vera

Aloe Vera INCI Names and Aloe Vera CAS Numbers

There is often misinformation regarding the way aloe vera products are defined. However, there are two very simple methods for conceptually defining a product.

In one case, the cosmetics industry has a catalog of product names used as ingredients in the cosmetics industry. We refer to INCI names (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients). These are systematic names internationally recognized to identify cosmetic ingredients.

In the second case, we have CAS numbers. A CAS number, also known as a CAS Registry Number (CAS RN), is a unique numerical identifier assigned to a specific chemical substance or molecular structure. It serves as a global standard for identifying chemicals, ensuring clarity and precision in scientific and regulatory contexts.

Below is a description of the INCI names and CAS numbers applicable to aloe vera products.

Aloe Vera INCI Names

The INCI name for Aloe Vera is Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice or Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract. Sometimes, it can also be listed as simply Aloe Barbadensis. The plant’s full botanical name is Aloe Barbadensis Miller.

The INCI name for aloe vera extract is Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract. This name is used to identify the ingredient in cosmetic and personal care product formulations.

The INCI name for aloe gel, including aloe vera gel, is Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice. This is the standardized name used in cosmetic and personal care product ingredient lists to identify the gel derived from the leaves of the Aloe Barbadensis Miller plant.

The INCI name for aloe vera juice is Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice. This name is used to identify the ingredient in cosmetic and personal care products. It refers to the liquid extract obtained from the inner gel of the aloe vera leaf.

The INCI name for Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract is Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract. This is the standard name used in cosmetic and personal care product ingredient lists to identify the extract derived from the leaves of the Aloe barbadensis plant.

The INCI name for Aloe Vera Oil is Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract. This is the internationally recognized name for the ingredient as used in cosmetic and personal care products. In some cases, depending on the extraction process and the solvents used, the INCI declaration may also include the solvent and the extracted proportion. It may also be listed as part of a larger INCI name, such as in combination with a carrier oil like Jojoba Seed Oil or Soybean Oil.

Key points about INCI names:

Standardization: INCI names provide a uniform way to identify cosmetic ingredients, regardless of the language or country.
Transparency: They allow consumers, manufacturers, and regulators to easily understand the ingredients in a product.
Labeling: INCI names are used on product labels to comply with regulations in many countries.
Not a guarantee of safety: While INCI names are crucial for labeling and identification, they do not guarantee the safety or suitability of an ingredient for use in cosmetics.

CAS Numbers for Aloe Vera

The CAS number for Aloe Vera juice, specifically referring to the extract from the leaves, is 85507-69-3. This number identifies the substance in chemical databases and is used for regulatory and scientific purposes.

CAS number 85507-69-3 it’s a UVCB (Unknown or Variable composition, Complex reaction products, or Biological materials) substance, meaning it doesn’t have a single molecular formula. This extract, derived from the Aloe vera plant, is known for its diverse applications in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and dietary supplements.

While some sources may list other related CAS numbers, such as 94349-62-9, 85507-69-3 is the most commonly associated and used CAS number for Aloe Vera extract, including the juice. This number specifically refers to “Extractives and their physically modified derivatives such as tinctures, concretes, absolutes, essential oils, oleoresins, terpenes, terpene-free fractions, distillates, residues, etc., obtained from Aloe vera, Liliaceae”.

Instead, the CAS number 94349-62-9 refers to Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, an extract of the flowers of the Aloe barbadensis plant, also known as Aloe vera. This CAS number is often associated with the INCI name ALOE BARBADENSIS FLOWER EXTRACT. It is commonly used in cosmetic and personal care products.

The CAS number for Aloe Vera gel is 8001-97-6. This number is used to identify the specific chemical or substance in scientific and industrial contexts. CAS number 8001-97-6 refers to Aloe Barbadensis Leaf, commonly known as aloe vera. It is a plant material derived from the leaves of the aloe plant.

More specifically, CAS 8001-97-6 is used to identify various aloe vera products, including: Aloe Vera Gel, Aloe Vera Leaf Extract, Aloe Vera Powder, and Aloe Extract (Aloe spp.).

Other CAS numbers, such as 85507-69-3 and 714950-07-9, may also be associated with Aloe Vera, potentially referring to different forms or preparations of the gel.

The CAS number 714950-07-9 refers to Aloe Vera Gel. It is the mucilage obtained from Aloe Vera leaves. Other names or synonyms include “ALOE VERA GEL”.

The CAS number for Aloe vera, specifically referring to Aloe vera extract, is 85507-69-3. This number is used to identify the substance in scientific and industrial contexts.

The CAS numbers for Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract are 85507-69-3 and 94349-62-9. This ingredient is commonly known as Aloe Vera leaf extract. It is widely used in cosmetics and skincare products due to its beneficial properties like antioxidant and moisturizing effects.

The CAS number for Aloe Vera extract is 85507-69-3. This number identifies the specific substance in chemical databases and is used for regulatory and identification purposes.

The CAS number for Aloe Vera oil is 100084-89-7. This number is used to uniquely identify the substance in chemical databases and is often used in research and product information. It is also known as Aloe capensis oil. This natural oil is extracted from the Aloe vera plant and is used for its potential cosmetic and medicinal properties.

The yellow sap of the aloe plant is known as aloin or aloe latex, and it is a component of the aloe extract. The CAS Number for aloin is 1415-73-2, while the CAS Number for the general aloe barbadensis extract, which includes the leaf juice and sometimes the latex, is 85507-69-3.

Here are some comments to help you better understand how CAS numbers work.

Purpose:CAS numbers eliminate ambiguity when identifying chemical substances, as many compounds have multiple names or synonyms.
Structure:They are typically a series of up to ten digits, divided by hyphens into three parts.
Assignment:The Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS), a division of the American Chemical Society, assigns these unique identifiers.
Global Use:CAS numbers are used internationally by scientists, regulators, and industry professionals to identify, track, and manage chemicals.
Database Indexing:CAS numbers are used to index chemical substances within the CAS Registry, a comprehensive database of chemical information.
No Chemical Significance:While they identify substances, CAS numbers themselves don’t contain any chemical information about the substance.
Importance:They are crucial for regulatory compliance, safety, and accurate communication about chemical substances.

For any additional information please contact us.

Aloe Constituents

aloe constituents

Aloe Constituents

Amino Acids

Aloe provides 20 of the 22 human required amino acids and 7 of the 8 essential ones. The amino acids provides the basic building blocks of proteins in the production of muscle tissue etc, and the human body cannot manufacture them.

Anthraquinones

Aloe provides 12 anthraquinones: Aloe emodin, Aloetic Acid, Aloin, Anthracine, Antranol, Barbaloin, Chrysophanic Acid, Emodin, Ethereal Oil, Ester of Cinnamonic Acid, Isobarbaloin, Resistannol.

In relatively small concentrations together with the Gel fraction they provide Analgesic, Antibacterial, Antifungal and Antiviral activity. In high concentration on their own they can be toxic. Are also known as aloe bitter, aloe bitter sap, aloe gum, or aloe laxatives.

The antraquinones are found in the sap. The anthraquinone derivatives (anthrones and chromones) comprise the phenolic fraction of the sap. The primary sap component is Aloin/Barbaloin anthrone derivative.

Enzymes

Aloe provides 8 enzymes: Aliiase, Alkaline Phosphatase, Amylase, Carboxypeptidase, Catalase, Cellulase, Lipase, Peroxidase. The enzymes help breakdown of food sugars and fats aiding digestion and enhancing nutrient absorbtion.

Hormones

Auxins and Gibberellins. Wound Healing and Anti-inflammatory.

Lignin

It is a cellulose based substance.Thought to provide penetrating power in Aloe vera skin preparations and may act as a carrier for other components

Minerals

Aloe provides 9 minerals: Calcium, Chromium, Copper, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Potassium, Sodium, Zinc Minerals are essential for good health and is known to work in certain combination with each other, vitamins and other trace elements

Salicylic Acid

Aspirin like compound. It is an analgesic.

Saponins

They are glycosides. Saponins are a soapy substance both cleansing and antiseptic.

Sterols

Aloe provides 4 main plant steroids: Cholesterol, Campesterol, Lupeol, ß Sitosterol. Are anti-inflammatory agents. Lupeol also possesses antiseptic and analgesic properties.

Sugars

Monosaccharides: glucose and fructose.

Polysaccarides: gluco-mannans / polymannose.

They have anti-inflammatory action. Acemannan is an anti-viral, and generates immune modulating activity. The long chain gluco-mannans are absorbed intact by the pinocytotic process of certain cells lining the digestive tract.

Vitamins

A, C, E, B, Choline, B12, Folic Acid

They are antioxidant (A,C,E): neutralises free radicals. B’s and Choline involved in amino acid metabolism, B12 required for production of red blood cells, Folic Acid in the development of blood cells.

References

The Essential Aloe Vera, The Actions And The Evidence, by Dr Peter Atherton, 2nd Edition, 1997

The Health and Medical Use of Aloe Vera by Lawrence G Plaskett, PhD, FRSC, 1998 {ISBN:0-943685-21-4}

Aloe Vera: A Scientific Approach by Robert H Davis, PhD, 1997 {ISBN:0-533-12137-X}

The Silent Healer A Modern Study of Aloe Vera, by Bill C Coates, R.Ph., C.C.N. with Robert Ahola, 3rd Edition, 1996

Aloe Vera: Nature’s Soothing Healer by Diane Gage, 1996 {ISBN:0-89281-627-9}

Aloe Properties

Main Properties of Aloe

Frequently the aloe plants are cultivated as ornamental plants. But the main wild or commercial cultivated aloe species, used basically in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, beauty, toiletry, food and beverages industries are the following:

Aloe Vera (Barbadensis miller)
Aloe Saponaria
Aloe Arborescens Miller
Aloe Ferox
Aloe Perryi (Socotra)
Aloe Chinensis
Aloe Turkanensis
Aloe Secundiflora

Human use of Aloes are primarily as a herbal remedy in alternative medicines and “home first aid”. It is very common to have an aloe plant in your garden or inside your house, usually in the kitchen. Both the translucent inner pulp (inner aloe gel) as well as the resinous yellow exudate known as aloe bitter or aloe sap, are used externally to relieve skin discomforts and internally as a laxative.

To date, much research has shown aloe having different positive medicinal benefits for external and internal uses. In the research section of this site we offer extensive information about that.

In the United States and United Kingdom, the Aloe vera has been and is yet the most studied and used variety; whereas in Japan and the Far East the Aloe arborescens miller, the Aloe Chinensis and the Aloe saponaria are also relevant. Most plantations of Aloe ferox are located in Southern Africa.

The more used part of the aloe plants are their leaves and in particular their internal products. Most abundant of them is a gelatinous yellowish colorless transparent gel.

The aloe gel is liquid, transparent and a colorless one composed mainly by water in approximately a 98% of its weight. The remaining 2% of weight, that it would obtain by elimination of the water, are a complex mixture of chemical substances, some of which already isolated and have been identified, knowing its farmacological and cosmetological effects.

This main element of the Aloe plant is a thick and mucilaginous gel. Externally, it can be applied directly to any number of skin complaints such as burns, rashes, cuts, acne, stings and cold sores.

Aloe gel can also provide instant relief from sunburn and will eliminate blemishes caused by over-exposure to the sun when used over a prolonged period of time. It will also greatly reduce scarring and other unsightly damaged skin tissue.

It works by penetrating the injured tissue, reducing inflammation, relieving pain and dilating capillaries to increase the blood flow to the wound. It has an intriguing, and effective, mix of antibiotic, astringent, coagulating, pain inhibiting and cell growth stimulating properties. It has been cited as a possible preventative of the aging effect, though this could be down to its intense moisturising qualities.

For that reasons, it is highly used in many cosmetic and beauty preparations. Internally, aloe juices made from aloe gel without aloe sap or aloin, are to help to the digestive system, with indigestion, heartburn, ulcers, heart system and the immune system.

There is also a bitter yellow juice that is produced in the thick leaf epidermis of the plant which is used, often in conjunction with the gel and other natural remedies, for the treatment of internal ailments.

The products made from the extracts of Aloe Vera (usually called aloe sap, aloe blood, aloin or acibar in spanish) are aimed to cure the constipation and indigestion. The processed aloin is also reported to help with arthritis, asthma, insomnia and haemorrhoids.

Taking Aloe extract (aloe yellow sap) internally must be done with care and, under professional advice because it may lead to abdominal pain and other digestive disorders.

Pregnant women and lactating mothers should always seek advice as the plant stimulates the uterus (which can bring on premature labour) and may cause gastrointestinal upsets in young babies.

At the present time they are numerous scientific works related to the aloes and their products. In the United States from 1950 to date, close to 200 Patents of Invention covering from aloe processing to new aloe derived industrial products have been registered, for medicines, cosmetics, foods, as much for its application in humans like for animals and vegetables.

External Uses

For medicinal purposes, aloe vera is most commonly used externally to treat various skin conditions, and burns. Not only does it soothe the skin, ease pain and reduce inflammation, studies have been done to show that using aloe as a topical treatment to burns will help speed up the healing recovery process.

A study performed in the 1990s showed that the healing of a moderate severe burn was sped up by six days when covering the wound on a regular basis with aloe vera gel, compared to the healing of the wound covered in a gauze bandage (Farrar, 2005).

Aloe vera helps burns of various degrees, including sunburn. When the gel is rubbed over over-exposed skin, the redness will disappear within a couple of days, and it helps to preserve moisture so that the skin will not become dry and peel. A cut leaf from an aloe vera plant can be rubbed over the skin, as it exudes gel; the gel can also be bought in drugstores.

Aloe vera can also be used to treat minor cuts and scrapes. Rubbing a cut leaf over a cut will help prevent infection and will speed up the healing response from the body. The aloe vera acts as a sealant and pulls the skin back together like a bandage or a suture.

Although aloe should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment, its many uses are beneficial and should be considered for anything such as an everyday moisturizer to a first-aid antiseptic. In addition to the above-mentioned benefits, continuous research is being done to learn how else the aloe vera plant can play an important part in human lives.

Many cosmetic companies are now adding aloe to every product possible including makeup, soaps, sunscreens, shampoos and lotions, as well as any product that is created to soothe, protect and moisturize the skin.

This is due partially to the fact that Aloe extract is full of vitamins, nutrients and minerals, as well as, the perception of the general public of Aloe as a healing ingredient.

The International Aloe Science Council advises choosing products that contain between twenty-five and forty percent aloe in them to receive the ultimate aloe vera benefits to the skin.

Aloe gel is also useful for any dry skin condition, especially eczema around the eyes and sensitive facial skin, and for treating fungal infections such as ringworm.

In Ayurvedic medicine, the gel is usually applied fresh and can even be converted into an ointment for long-term use.