5 Down

NYT Mini • September 22, 2025

Balm ingredient with soothing properties

Answer:

ALOE

Hint:

This succulent plant is often found in sunburn relief gels and thrives in arid climates with thick, spiky leaves.

Explanation:

This clue points to "aloe," a plant well-known for its gel-like substance that soothes skin irritations like sunburns or cuts. The word "balm" hints at something calming or healing, and aloe is a common natural ingredient in balms and lotions. There’s no hidden wordplay here—it’s a straightforward reference to the plant’s widely recognized soothing properties.

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General solving tip

Match the clue's grammar: plural with plural, past with past. If the clue ends in 's' or uses a past-tense verb, mirror that form in the entry.

More tips → General Hints