Evaluation of the therapeutic effects of aloe vera gel on alloxan- induced diabetic rats

Abstract

Background: Aloe vera gel (AVG) extract is commonly used as a home remedy for some diseases, including diabetes mellitus.

Objectives: This study is to determine the effects of pure Aloe vera (Aloe babardensis) gel on some biochemical, haematological and histological parameters in diabetic rats.

Methods: The rats were divided into six groups of six rats each. Diabetes mellitus was experimentally induced in rats by intraperitoneal administration of a single dose of alloxan monohydrate (170 mg/kg b.w.) following a 12 h fasting period. The Groups I and V received isotonic saline in a similar manner. The establishment of diabetes mellitus was confirmed by fasting blood glucose (FBG) level above 350mg/dl using a GlucoMetre (AccuChek Active). The AVG extract was administered for 14 days along with the metformin and alloxan drugs administered. Blood samples were taken from fasted rats. The effects of AVG on fasting blood, biochemical, haematological and oxidative stress parameters in the liver and histological examination of the liver, kidney and pancreas were evaluated.

Results: There was a decrease in blood glucose level in the AVG treated group and an improvement in the lipid profile, as well as some haematological parameters. In addition, oral administration of Aloe barbadensis gel decreased the level of MDA with a corresponding increase in the activities of CAT, SOD, GST and GSH levels in the liver tissue of diabetic rats.

Conclusion: These results suggest potent hypoglycaemic, hypolipidemic, antioxidant and therapeutic effects of Aloe Vera, beneficial as a herbal remedy for the treatment/management of diabetes mellitus.

Keywords: Diabetes, alloxan, Aloe babardensis gel; hypoglycaemic, hypolipidemic, antioxidant, rat