In this guide
Aloe vera and agave look alike at first glance, but they are two different plants. The difference matters when you buy a plant, a drink or a syrup.
How to tell them apart
Aloe vera leaves are fleshy and filled with gel, with softer teeth along the edges. Agave has tougher, fibrous leaves and a sharp tip. Agave is grown for syrup, aloe for gel.
What is in the product
Agave syrup is a sweetener. WHO advises that free sugars, including syrups and honey, make up less than 10 percent of daily energy. So use it like sugar, in moderation. Aloe gel is not a sweetener.
NCCIH states that topical aloe vera gel is generally well tolerated, while oral latex can cause stomach pain and diarrhea. That is why it matters to know exactly what you buy.
Growing them at home
Both plants need plenty of light and infrequent watering, with good drainage. Water only when the soil is completely dry, because excess water rots the roots. Agave grows larger and has a sharp tip, so do not place it by a walkway or where children play. Do not drink gel from a houseplant aloe, because home processing cannot check composition or reliably remove latex.
How to check the label
- Look for the Latin name: Aloe barbadensis Miller for aloe vera, Agave for agave.
- Check the order of ingredients and the share of aloe in a drink.
- Check for added sugars or syrups.
- Check whether the product is meant to be drunk or used on skin.
Where the Forever drink fits
You can compare Forever Aloe Vera Gel with other aloe drinks by composition and label.
Common questions
Is agave the same as aloe vera?
No. They are different plants with different composition and uses.
Is agave syrup healthier than sugar?
Not really. Free sugars include syrups, so they should be limited.
Before first use
Choose products for your dietary routine and care needs. Follow a healthcare professional’s advice for diagnosis and treatment of symptoms. Check suitability first during pregnancy and for use by children.
