Evaluation of the Therapeutic Effects of Aloe Vera Gel on Alloxan- Induced Diabetic Rats
Date
2016
Authors
Imaga, N.O.A.
Ebuehi, O.A.T.
Obomniru, G.E.
Oyadina, O.O.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Nigerian Quarterly Journal of Hospital Medicine
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.
Description
Keywords
Research Subject Categories::NATURAL SCIENCES::Chemistry::Biochemistry , Diabetes , Alloxan , Aloe babardensis gel , hypoglycaemic , hypolipidemic , antioxidant , rat
Citation
Imaga, N.O.A., Ebuehi O.A.T., Edom J. J., Obomniru. E.G and Oyadina O. O Nigerian Quarterly Journal of Hospital Medicine. 26 (2): 377 -386. 2016