Theo Nash
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people turned to DIY hand sanitizers, which typically include Aloe Vera gel, 99 percent Isopropyl alcohol, and essential oils. However, blending Aloe Vera gel with alcohol can be challenging due to the gel's composition, which includes water-soluble components. To effectively combine the two, it is recommended to blend the Aloe Vera gel for up to 30 seconds before measuring out 1/4 cup and adding it to 3/4 cup of Isopropyl alcohol or grain-based alcohol, such as vodka. Blending this mixture for another 15 seconds ensures that the gel and alcohol are properly combined. While this DIY hand sanitizer provides a temporary solution, it is important to prioritize handwashing with soap and water whenever possible to maintain proper hygiene and prevent the spread of germs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To make hand sanitizer |
| Ingredients | Aloe Vera gel, Isopropyl alcohol, high-proof vodka, essential oil |
| Aloe Vera gel source | Fresh Aloe Vera plant or store-bought |
| Amount of gel | 1/4 cup |
| Amount of alcohol | 3/4 cup |
| Alcohol type | Isopropyl alcohol or grain-based alcohol (e.g. Everclear) with 75-95% alcohol content |
| Alcohol percentage | Final product should have at least 60% alcohol to be effective |
| Essential oil | 10-15 drops of essential oil (e.g. lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus) |
| Container | Spray or squeeze bottle |
| Storage | Good for up to three weeks |
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What You'll Learn
Using a blender to mix aloe vera gel and alcohol
To mix aloe vera gel and alcohol using a blender, you will need the following ingredients: aloe vera gel, isopropyl alcohol or a high-proof grain-based alcohol like vodka, and essential oils (optional).
If you are using a fresh aloe vera plant, cut the plant about 2 to 3 inches from the base. Squeeze out about a 1/4 cup of gel from the plant. For 1/4 cup of gel, you will need 3/4 cup of alcohol. If you are using bottled aloe vera gel, you can simply measure out the required amount with a measuring cup.
Once you have your ingredients, pour the alcohol into the blender first, followed by the aloe vera gel. Blend the mixture for up to 30 seconds. If you are using essential oils, add about 10 to 15 drops of your chosen oil to the mixture and blend again for another 15 seconds to ensure that everything is well combined.
It is important to note that adding aloe vera gel to alcohol will dilute the concentration of the alcohol. For example, using 80-proof vodka, which has 40% alcohol, will result in a final product with only about 30% alcohol. Therefore, it is recommended to use the highest proof alcohol available to ensure the effectiveness of the final product as a disinfectant.
Transfer your blended mixture to a spray or squeeze bottle for easy application. This homemade sanitizer will be good for up to three weeks.
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Proportions of aloe vera gel and alcohol
The proportions of aloe vera gel and alcohol to use depend on the desired outcome and the type of alcohol used.
For hand sanitiser, the US CDC recommends that hand sanitisers contain at least 60% alcohol to be effective in killing germs and bacteria. When making hand sanitiser at home, it is important to consider the alcohol percentage of the alcohol used, as the aloe vera gel will dilute it. For example, mixing 80-proof vodka (40% alcohol) with aloe vera gel will result in a final product with only 30% alcohol. A higher-proof alcohol, such as Everclear (75-95% alcohol), can be used to ensure the final product has a high enough alcohol content. Isopropyl alcohol, with an alcohol content of 90-99%, is another effective option.
The recipe for hand sanitiser using fresh aloe vera gel and alcohol varies slightly depending on the source. One recipe calls for blending the aloe vera gel for up to 30 seconds, then measuring out 1/4 cup of gel and adding it to 3/4 cup of alcohol. Another recipe suggests using a live aloe vera plant or a single cut of aloe vera and squeezing out about 1/4 cup of gel, which is then mixed with 3/4 cup of grain-based alcohol. Both recipes recommend adding 10-15 drops of essential oil to the mixture.
It is important to note that excessive use of hand sanitisers with an alcohol percentage higher than 60% may have a drying effect on the skin, causing microscopic cuts and abrasions that can create entry points for microorganisms. Hand washing with soap and water is preferred over the use of hand sanitiser to reduce the number of germs.
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Types of alcohol to use
When dissolving aloe vera gel in alcohol, the type of alcohol used is an important consideration. The choice of alcohol depends on the intended application, availability, and desired effectiveness. Here are some commonly used types of alcohol for dissolving aloe vera gel:
Isopropyl Alcohol
Isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, is a common choice for dissolving aloe vera gel, especially when making hand sanitizers. It typically has a high alcohol content, ranging from 60% to 99%. Isopropyl alcohol is effective in killing germs and bacteria and is often preferred for its disinfectant properties. However, it may not always be easily accessible, especially during high demand periods.
Grain-based Alcohol (Everclear)
Everclear is a high-proof grain-based alcohol that can be used as an alternative to Isopropyl alcohol. It has a very high alcohol content, typically ranging from 75% to 95%. This makes it an effective disinfectant and a good choice when making hand sanitizers. However, like Isopropyl alcohol, it may not always be readily available.
Vodka
Vodka is a widely available alternative when specialized alcohols are not accessible. When using vodka, it is important to choose a high-proof option, preferably with an alcohol content of 65% or higher. Keep in mind that mixing vodka with aloe vera gel will dilute the alcohol content, so using the highest proof available is recommended. Vodka may not be as efficient in killing germs as Isopropyl alcohol or Everclear, but it can still be effective when combined with aloe vera gel.
It is worth noting that the type of alcohol used will impact the final product's consistency, effectiveness, and potential side effects. Additionally, the availability and local regulations regarding the purchase and use of these alcohols should be considered.
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![McKesson Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol 70% [1 Count] USP First Aid Antiseptic, 32 oz](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61lYiXl9g9L._AC_UL320_.jpg)
Adding essential oils
When making hand sanitiser, adding essential oils can be beneficial for giving your mixture a pleasant smell. However, it is important to use only a small amount of essential oil, as too much can irritate the skin or disrupt the mixture.
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that contain active chemical compounds. These compounds give essential oils their fragrance and therapeutic properties, but they can also cause skin irritation for certain skin types, especially those with sensitive skin.
Before adding essential oils to your mixture of alcohol and aloe vera gel, it is important to dilute the essential oils with a carrier oil, such as coconut, olive, jojoba, or avocado oil. This will help to limit potential skin irritation.
To add essential oils to your hand sanitiser, simply mix a few drops of your chosen essential oil with the carrier oil of your choice. Then, slowly add this mixture to your alcohol and aloe vera gel solution, stirring continuously until all the ingredients are well blended.
It is important to note that adding essential oils is completely optional and that the effectiveness of your hand sanitiser primarily relies on maintaining an alcohol content of at least 60%.
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Effectiveness of different alcohol percentages
The effectiveness of different alcohol percentages in dissolving aloe vera gel depends on the intended use of the final product. For instance, the solubility of aloe vera gel in alcohol is influenced by factors such as the type of alcohol, the presence of other solutes, and the temperature.
When creating hand sanitizer, the alcohol type and percentage are crucial for effectiveness and safety. The CDC recommends that hand sanitizers contain at least 60% alcohol to effectively kill germs and bacteria. Isopropyl alcohol, a common choice for hand sanitizers, is typically available at 99% alcohol concentration. However, when mixed with aloe vera gel, the alcohol content decreases. For example, using 80-proof vodka (40% alcohol) in a hand sanitizer recipe may result in a final product with only 30% alcohol. High-proof grain alcohols, such as Everclear (75-95% alcohol), are more effective at maintaining the desired alcohol percentage in the final product.
The type of alcohol also influences the extraction efficiency of compounds from aloe vera gel. Studies have shown that ethanol and methanol are effective solvents for extracting antibacterial compounds from aloe vera gel. The alcohol's concentration plays a role in its inhibitory activity against certain bacteria. For instance, the alcoholic extraction of aloe vera gel using ethanol demonstrated the highest inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus faecalis, with an inhibition zone diameter of 26 millimeters, compared to lower diameters observed with antibiotics. Additionally, the alcoholic extracts of aloe vera gel (methanol and ethanol) exhibited varying inhibitory effects on different bacteria, with mean minimal inhibitory concentrations ranging from 25-200%.
In summary, the effectiveness of dissolving aloe vera gel in alcohol depends on the intended application. For hand sanitizers, achieving and maintaining an alcohol percentage of at least 60% is crucial for effectiveness against microorganisms. When using aloe vera gel in hand sanitizer recipes, it is essential to use high-proof alcohol to compensate for the diluting effect of the gel. Additionally, the choice of alcohol, such as ethanol or methanol, can impact the extraction and inhibitory activity of compounds from aloe vera gel against specific bacteria.
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Frequently asked questions
High-proof grain-based alcohol, such as Everclear, is the best option as it has an alcohol content of 75-95%.
Isopropyl alcohol is a good alternative, with an alcohol content of 90-99%. If you don't have access to this, vodka can be used, but it will result in a lower alcohol percentage.
According to the CDC, hand sanitisers should have a minimum of 60% alcohol content to effectively kill germs and bacteria.
Fresh aloe vera has moisturising, cooling, and healing effects when used topically on the skin.
First, blend the aloe vera gel for up to 30 seconds. Then, measure out 1/4 cup of gel and add it to 3/4 cup of alcohol. Blend again for 15 seconds to ensure it is well mixed. Finally, add 10-15 drops of your chosen essential oil to a spray or squeeze bottle.
![McKesson Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol 70% [1 Count] USP First Aid Antiseptic, 16 oz](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61-YReH3nKL._AC_UL320_.jpg)
