Effects of <i>Aloe vera</i> Extract on the Haemostatic Mechanism of Albino Rats

Abstract

Plants and plant extracts have been found very useful for purposes of treatment of diseases among other benefits. Aloe vera is one such plants, whose effects on the haemostatic mechanism of albino wistar rats were studied. Results showed that Aloe vera did not increase the haemoglobin concentration, and packed cell volume of rats but increased the white blood cell count, platelet count, without increasing the bleeding time, clotting time, prothrombin time, and partial thromboplastin time. Furthermore, the combined effect of the extract and calcium channel blocker (Nifedipine 10mg/kg i. m) on clotting time and bleeding time showed that these haemostatic parameters were shortened or reduced. Calcium is believed to be acting through the pathway of prothrombin complex thus converting it to thrombin and fibrinogen, and finally to fibrin mesh in a very short time in albino rats than in humans. The extracts of Aloe vera contain some active principles that are effective in arresting blood flow during haemorrhage and it is believed to be calcium-like.

Key Words: Aloe vera, albino rats, Haemostasis, Haemoglobin.