ALOE SPECIES FIELD DAY

Aloe species field day was organized by KEFRI-, Marigat station at Loruk centre. It was aimed at providing an opportunity to local communities and other stakeholders in sharing experiences on Aloe species, aloe products and Aloe Management.
The species are important plants that have received great attention in recent years as a source of human health care products, and for their role in environmental conservation and rehabilitation of degraded areas.
There are about 450 species in the genus Aloe that have been identified. Aloe Vera is a drought resistant crop that grows in most arid and semiarid areas in the world. The aloe plant also known as Tengeretwe in Tugen and sukuroi in Ilchamus has come to the rescue for communities in Marigat District.
There are over 22 species of aloe in Kenya but the most popular is the aloe vera.The species can tolerate drought requires little tending and is often referred to as the lily of desert. Harvesting of aloe which is classified among endangered species was officially licensed in Marigat District in September 2009 by Kenya Wildlife service.
Aloes provide a range of products and services these includes:
Aloe gel, Aloe bitter gum, Aloe dye, ornamental and fencing, range rehabilitation, Bee forage, Fodder production, production of local brews, human and livestock medicine.

Making Aloe soap
Using a simple method, communities have earned income through making aloe soap.
Ingredients
• Aloe Vera leaves (Chilensis)
• Caustic soda
• Sodium silicate
• Coconut oil
• Perfume
• Glycerin
• Dye

Method:
1.Aloe leaves are Leaves are cut in to small pieces and water added
2.The mixture is squeezed and sieved to remain with the sap
3.The mixture is then poured into a basin where sodium silicate is added and stirred in one direction
4.Caustic soda is then added which in turn makes the temperature to rise to about 120c the mixture is stirred until the temperature drops to 50c
5.In another separate basin coconut oil is measured and desired color, perfume and glycerin added and stirred.
6.The two mixtures are then put together in one basin to produce a thick mixture.
7.The mixture is stirred continuously until smooth
8.The mixture is then poured into soap dishes and left to dry for about 12 hours.