This list contains 120 clinical abstracts. The list can be viewed in its entirety, searched by keyword (some suggestions are in the left column here), or accessed through the list of titles, by clicking the link next to each title for which an abstract is held.

1

Antioxidant effect of Aloe vera gel extract in streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats.

Author: Rajasekaran,-S; Sivagnanam,-K; Subramanian,-S

Citation: Pharmacol-Rep. 2005 Jan-Feb; 57(1): 90-6

Abstract:
In the present study, an attempt has been made to evaluate the presence ofantioxidant property in the alcoholic extract of Aloe vera leaf gel. Oraladministration of Aloe vera gel extract at a concentration of 300 mg/kg todiabetic rats significantly decreased the levels of blood glucose, glycosylatedhemoglobin and increased hemoglobin. The increased levels of lipid peroxidationand hydroperoxides in tissues of diabetic rats were reverted back to near normallevels after the treatment with gel extract. The extract treatment also resultedin a significant increase in reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase,catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione-S-transferase in the liver andkidney of diabetic rats. These results clearly show the antioxidant property of Aloe vera gel extract. The extract was also more effective than glibenclamide inrestoring the values of these parameters.


4

Effect of Aloe vera (L.) Burm. fil. leaf gel and pulp extracts on kidney in type-II diabetic rat models.

Author: Bolkent,-S; Akev,-N; Ozsoy,-N; Sengezer-Inceli,-M; Can,-A; Alper,-O; Yanardag,-R

Citation: Indian-J-Exp-Biol. 2004 Jan; 42(1): 48-52

Abstract:
Significant degenerative changes were observed in the kidney tissue of untreated neonatal streptozotocin (n0STZ)-induced type-II diabetic rats. These degenerative changes were diminished in the kidney tissue of diabetic animals given glibenclamide and Aloe leaf gel and pulp extracts. Kidney lipid peroxidation levels were increased in diabetic rats compared to healthy rats; these levels were higher in rats treated with glibenclamide than in those which received Aloe extracts. Serum urea and creatinine levels were higher in diabetic rats in comparison to healthy rats. The administration of Aloe gel extract and glibenclamide decreased serum urea and creatinine levels in comparison to diabetic controls. Only A. vera leaf gel extract showed improvement both in histological and biochemical parameters suggesting a protective effect of A. vera on mild damage caused by type-II diabetes on kidney tissue.


5

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of oral aloe vera gel for active ulcerative colitis.

Author: Langmead,-L; Feakins,-R-M; Goldthorpe,-S; Holt,-H; Tsironi,-E; De-Silva,-A; Jewell,-D-P; Rampton,-D-S

Citation: Aliment-Pharmacol-Ther. 2004 Apr 1; 19(7): 739-47

Abstract:
BACKGROUND: The herbal preparation, aloe vera, has been claimed to have anti-inflammatory effects and, despite a lack of evidence of its therapeutic efficacy, is widely used by patients with inflammatory bowel disease. AIM: To perform a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of the efficacy and safety of aloe vera gel for the treatment of mildly to moderately active ulcerative colitis. METHODS: Forty-four evaluable hospital out-patients were randomly given oral aloe vera gel or placebo, 100 mL twice daily for 4 weeks, in a 21 ratio. The primary outcome measures were clinical remission (Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index /= 3 points; response was defined as remission or improvement), Baron score, histology score, haemoglobin, platelet count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein and albumin. RESULTS: Clinical remission, improvement and response occurred in nine (30%), 11 (37%) and 14 (47%), respectively, of 30 patients given aloe vera, compared with one (7%) [P = 0.09; odds rati o, 5.6 (0.6-49)], one (7%) [P = 0.06; odds ratio, 7.5 (0.9-66)] and two (14%) [P < 0.05; odds ratio, 5.3 (1.0-27)], respectively, of 14 patients taking placebo. The Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index and histological scores decreased significantly during treatment with aloe vera (P = 0.01 and P = 0.03, respectively), but not with placebo. Sigmoidoscopic scores and laboratory variables showed no significant differences between aloe vera and placebo. Adverse events were minor and similar in both groups of patients. CONCLUSION: Oral aloe vera taken for 4 weeks produced a clinical response more often than placebo; it also reduced the histological disease activity and appeared to be safe. Further evaluation of the therapeutic potential of aloe vera gel in inflammatory bowel disease is needed.


6

Anti-inflammatory effects of aloe vera gel in human colorectal mucosa in vitro.

Author: Langmead,-L; Makins,-R-J; Rampton,-D-S

Citation: Aliment-Pharmacol-Ther. 2004 Mar 1; 19(5): 521-7

Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Oral aloe vera gel is widely used by patients with inflammatory bowel disease and is under therapeutic evaluation for this condition. AIM: To assess the effects of aloe vera in vitro on the production of reactive oxygen metabolites, eicosanoids and interleukin-8, all of which may be pathogenic in inflammatory bowel disease. METHODS: The anti-oxidant activity of aloe vera was assessed in two cell-free, radical-generating systems and by the chemiluminescence of incubated colorectal mucosal biopsies. Eicosanoid production by biopsies and interleukin-8 release by CaCo2 epithelial cells in the presence of aloe vera were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: Aloe vera gel had a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on reactive oxygen metabolite production; 50% inhibition occurred at 1 in 1000 dilution in the phycoerythrin assay and at 1 in 10-50 dilution with biopsies. Aloe vera inhibited the production of prostaglandin E2 by 30% at 1 in 50 dilution (P = 0.03), but had no effect on thrombox ane B2 production. The release of interleukin-8 by CaCo2 cells fell by 20% (P < 0.05) with aloe vera diluted at 1 in 100, but not at 1 in 10 or 1 in 1000 dilutions. CONCLUSION: The anti-inflammatory actions of aloe vera gel in vitro provide support for the proposal that it may have a therapeutic effect in inflammatory bowel disease.




8

Phase II double-blind randomized study comparing oral aloe vera versus placebo to prevent radiation-related mucositis in patients with head-and-neck neoplasms.

Author: Su,-C-K; Mehta,-V; Ravikumar,-L; Shah,-R; Pinto,-H; Halpern,-J; Koong,-A; Goffinet,-D; Le,-Q-T

Citation: Int-J-Radiat-Oncol-Biol-Phys. 2004 Sep 1; 60(1): 171-7

Abstract:
PURPOSE: In a single-institution, double-blind, prospective, randomized trial, we determined whether oral aloe vera gel can reduce radiation-induced mucositis in head-and-neck cancer patients. METHODS AND MATERIALS: We randomized 58 head-and-neck cancer patients between oral aloe vera and placebo. To be included in this Phase II protocol, patients had to be treated with radiotherapy with curative intent at Stanford University between February 1999 and March 2002. We examined patients biweekly for mucositis at 15 head-and-neck subsites and administered quality-of-life questionnaires. RESULTS: Patients in the aloe and placebo groups were statistically identical in baseline characteristics. By the end of treatment, the two groups were also statistically identical in maximal grade of toxicity, duration of Grade 2 or worse mucositis, quality-of-life scores, percentage of weight loss, use of pain medications, hydration requirement, oral infections, and prolonged radiation breaks. CONCLUSION: In our randomized study , oral aloe vera was not a beneficial adjunct to head-and-neck radiotherapy. The mean quality-of-life scores were greater in the aloe vera group, but the differences were not statistically significant. Oral aloe vera did not improve tolerance to head-and-neck radiotherapy, decrease mucositis, reduce soreness, or otherwise improve patient well-being.


9

The effect of Aloe vera A. Berger (Liliaceae) on gastric acid secretion and acute gastric mucosal injury in rats.

Author: Yusuf,-S; Agunu,-A; Diana,-M

Citation: J-Ethnopharmacol. 2004 Jul; 93(1): 33-7

Abstract:
The effect of varying doses of ethanol extract of Aloe vera (Liliaceae) on acute gastric mucosal lesions induced by 0.6 M HCl and acid output was studied in the pylorus ligated and lumen perfuse rats, respectively. Acid secretion was determined by titration of the collected gastric juice to pH 7.0. Intraperitoneal injection of Aloe vera, dose dependently inhibited gastric acid secretion. The plant was more active as a gastroprotective agent at lower concentration against mucosal injury induced by 0.6 M HCl. In conclusion, Aloe vera is endowed with gastric acid anti-secretory activity and could protect the gastric mucosa at low concentrations against injurious agents.


10

Hypoglycemic effect of Aloe vera gel on streptozotocin-induced diabetes in experimental rats.

Author: Rajasekaran,-S; Sivagnanam,-K; Ravi,-K; Subramanian,-S

Citation: J-Med-Food. 2004 Spring; 7(1): 61-6

Abstract:
In the present study an attempt has been made to evaluate the presence of hypoglycemic activity in the alcoholic extract of Aloe vera gel. Effects of oral administration of A. vera extract at a concentration of 200 and 300 mg/kg of body weight on (a) normal fasted rats, (b) oral glucose-loaded rats, and (c) streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats have been studied. A. vera extract maintain the glucose homeostasis by controlling the carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes.


11

Phytotherapy: an alternative treatment for non-healing ulcers.

Author: Avijgan,-M

Citation: J-Wound-Care. 2004 Apr; 13(4): 157-8

Abstract:
There are few reports in the literature on the effectiveness of complimentary therapies on chronic wounds. Use of an aloe vera gel resulted in full healing after treatments such as antibiotics, surgical debridement and skin grafting had failed.


12

Possible interaction between sevoflurane and Aloe vera.

Author: Lee,-A; Chui,-P-T; Aun,-C-S; Gin,-T; Lau,-A-S

Citation: Ann-Pharmacother. 2004 Oct; 38(10): 1651-4

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: To describe a patient with massive intraoperative bleeding after oral consumption of Aloe vera tablets. CASE SUMMARY: A 35-year-old woman lost 5 L of blood during surgery as a result of a possible herb-drug interaction between Aloe vera and sevoflurane. DISCUSSION: Aloe vera is a common herb used for antiinflammatory and antiarthritic activity, as well as antibacterial, hypoglycemic, and lipid-lowering effects. Compounds contained within Aloe vera can cause a reduction in prostaglandin synthesis, which may inhibit secondary aggregation of platelets. Sevoflurane inhibits thromboxane A(2) formation by suppression of cyclooxygenase activity, impairs platelet aggregation, and prolongs bleeding. Although the vascularity and size of the hemangioma were the most important factors for the massive intraoperative blood loss, concomitant use of sevoflurane and Aloe vera played a contributory role. An objective causality assessment revealed that this adverse event was possible as a result of the sevoflurane an d Aloe vera interaction. CONCLUSIONS: There is a potential herb-drug interaction between Aloe vera and sevoflurane based on the antiplatelet effects of these 2 agents. Herbal medications with antiplatelet potential should be discontinued before anesthesia and surgery.


13

Isolation and characterization of structural components of Aloe vera L. leaf pulp.

Author: Ni,-Y; Turner,-D; Yates,-K-M; Tizard,-I

Citation: Int-Immunopharmacol. 2004 Dec 20; 4(14): 1745-55

Abstract:
The clear pulp, also known as inner gel, of Aloe vera L. leaf is widely used in various medical, cosmetic and nutraceutical applications. Many beneficial effects of this plant have been attributed to the polysaccharides present in the pulp. However, discrepancies exist regarding the composition of pulp polysaccharide species and an understanding of pulp structure in relation to its chemical composition has been lacking. Thus, we examined pulp structure, isolated structural components and determined their carbohydrate compositions along with analyzing a partially purified pulp-based product (Acemannan hydrogel) used to make Carrisyn hydrogel wound dressing. Light and electron microscopy showed that the pulp consisted of large clear mesophyll cells with a diameter as large as 1000 microm. These cells were composed of cell walls and cell membranes along with a very limited number of degenerated cellular organelles. No intact cellular organelles were found in mesophyll cells. Following disruption of pulp by homog enization, three components were isolated by sequential centrifugation. They were thin clear sheets, microparticles and a viscous liquid gel, which corresponded to cell wall, degenerated cellular organelles and liquid content of mesophyll cells based on morphological and chemical analysis. These three components accounted for 16.2% (+/-3.8), 0.70% (+/-0) and 83.1% of the pulp on a dry weight basis. The carbohydrate composition of each component was distinct; liquid gel contained mannan, microparticles contained galactose-rich polysaccharide(s) and cell walls contained an unusually high level of galacturonic acid (34%, w/w; Gal A). The same three components were also found in Acemannan Hydrogel with mannan as the predominant component. Thus, different pulp structural components are associated with different polysaccharides and thus may potentially be different functionally. These findings may help lay a basis for further studies and development of better controlled processing methods and applications for this well-accepted medicinal plant.


14

Systematic review of herbs and dietary supplements for glycemic control in diabetes.

Author: Yeh,-G-Y; Eisenberg,-D-M; Kaptchuk,-T-J; Phillips,-R-S

Citation: Diabetes-Care. 2003 Apr; 26(4): 1277-94

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: To conduct a systematic review of the published literature on the efficacy and safety of herbal therapies and vitamin/mineral supplements for glucose control in patients with diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: We conducted an electronic literature search of MEDLINE, OLDMEDLINE, Cochrane Library Database, and HealthSTAR, from database inception to May 2002, in addition to performing hand searches and consulting with experts in the field. Available clinical studies published in the English language that used human participants and examined glycemic control were included. Data were extracted in a standardized manner, and two independent investigators assessed methodological quality of randomized controlled trials using the Jadad scale. RESULTS: A total of 108 trials examining 36 herbs (single or in combination) and 9 vitamin/mineral supplements, involving 4,565 patients with diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance, met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. There were 58 controlled clinical tria ls involving individuals with diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance (42 randomized and 16 nonrandomized trials). Most studies involved patients with type 2 diabetes. Heterogeneity and the small number of studies per supplement precluded formal meta-analyses. Of these 58 trials, the direction of the evidence for improved glucose control was positive in 76% (44 of 58). Very few adverse effects were reported. CONCLUSIONS: There is still insufficient evidence to draw definitive conclusions about the efficacy of individual herbs and supplements for diabetes; however, they appear to be generally safe. The available data suggest that several supplements may warrant further study. The best evidence for efficacy from adequately designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) is available for Coccinia indica and American ginseng. Chromium has been the most widely studied supplement. Other supplements with positive preliminary results include Gymnema sylvestre, Aloe vera, vanadium, Momordica charantia, and nopal.


15

Evaluation of antioxidant potential of Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) extracts.

Author: Hu,-Y.; Xu,-J.; Hu,-Q.

Citation: Journal of agricultural and food chemistry. 2003 Dec. 17, v. 51, no. 26 p. 7788-7791.

Abstract:
The polysaccharide and flavonoid concentrations of two-, three-, and four-year-old Aloe vera were determined, and their antioxidant activities were evaluated compared to BHT and (alpha)-tocopherol by the DPPH radical scavenging method and the linoleic acid system at 100 micrograms of soluble solids per mL of ethanol. The results showed that three-year-old Aloe vera contained significantly higher levels of polysaccharides and flavonoids than two- and four-year-old Aloe vera, and no significant differences in flavonoid levels were found between three- and four-year-old Aloe vera. All the aloe extracts showed significant antioxidant activity. The antioxidant activity of Aloe vera extracts and reference compounds followed the order: three-year-old Aloe vera > BHT > four-year-old Aloe vera > (alpha)-tocopherol > two-year-old Aloe vera. The three-year-old extract exhibited the strongest radical scavenging activity of 72.19%, which is significantly higher than that of BHT at 70.52% and (alpha)-tocopherol at 65.20%. These data suggest that the growth stage plays a vital role in the composition and antioxidant activity of Aloe vera.


16

Plant medicines of Indian origin for wound healing activity: a review.

Author: Biswas,-T-K; Mukherjee,-B

Citation: Int-J-Low-Extrem-Wounds. 2003 Mar; 2(1): 25-39

Abstract:
Research on wound healing drugs is a developing area in modern biomedicalsciences. Scientists who are trying to develop newer drugs from naturalresources are looking toward the Ayurveda, the Indian traditional system ofmedicine. Several drugs of plant, mineral, and animal origin are described inthe Ayurveda for their wound healing properties under the term Vranaropaka. Mostof these drugs are derived from plant origin. Some of these plants have beenscreened scientifically for the evaluation of their wound healing activity indifferent pharmacological models and patients, but the potential of most remainsunexplored. In a few cases, active chemical constituents were identified. SomeAyurvedic medicinal plants, namely, Ficus bengalensis, Cynodon dactylon,Symplocos racemosa, Rubia cordifolia, Pterocarpus santalinus, Ficus racemosa,Glycyrrhiza glabra, Berberis aristata, Curcuma longa, Centella asiatica,Euphorbia nerifolia, and Aloe vera, were found to be effective in experimentalmodels. This paper presents a limited review of plants used in Ayurvedicmedicine.


18

Retardation of wound healing by silver sulfadiazine is reversed by Aloe vera and nystatin.

Author: Muller,-M-J; Hollyoak,-M-A; Moaveni,-Z; Brown,-T-L; Herndon,-D-N; Heggers,-J-P

Citation: Burns. 2003 Dec; 29(8): 834-6

Abstract:
Inhibition of wound contraction by topical anti microbial agents has been described. The purpose of this study was to further investigate that phenomenon and to explore the effect that other agents such as Aloe vera might have on this process. Full-thickness excised wounds were created on the dorsum of Sprague-Dawley rats under anaesthesia. The wounds were treated with topical agents three times daily for fourteen days, then observed until healed. Groups were: saline control, placebo (aqueous cream) control, silver sulphadiazine (SSD) cream 1%, SSD 0.5%, SSD 1% with Aloe vera, SSD 1% with nystatin, nystatin. Wound surface areas were measured each three days. Time to 50% and 90% healing was compared using ANOVA. Wound half-life and healing times were shortest in the SSD/Aloe vera and nystatin groups (Pless than 0.05) and longest in the 1% SSD and saline control groups. The placebo group (aqueous cream) healed in a significantly shorter time (Pless than 0.05) than the control (saline) group. Wound contraction w as delayed by saline and SSD. Nystatin and Aloe vera, when added to SSD, reversed that effect.These data suggest that a dry wound (saline) heals slowly. Infection control without delay of wound healing is most appealing and clinical trials are planned.


19

Effects of Aloe vera on gap junctional intercellular communication and proliferation of human diabetic and nondiabetic skin fibroblasts.

Author: Abdullah,-K-M; Abdullah,-A; Johnson,-M-L; Bilski,-J-J; Petry,-K; Redmer,-D-A; Reynolds,-L-P; Grazul-Bilska,-A-T

Citation: J-Altern-Complement-Med. 2003 Oct; 9(5): 711-8

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of Aloe vera on gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) and proliferation of human skin fibroblasts in the presence or absence of basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2). DESIGN: In vitro study using human type II diabetic and nondiabetic skin fibroblast cell lines. SETTING AND SUBJECTS: Diabetic (n = 4) and nondiabetic (n = 4) human skin fibroblast cell lines were purchased from Coriell Institute for Medical Research (Camden, NJ). The cells were cultured with or without Aloe vera extract in increasing concentrations (0%, 0.625%, 1.25%, 2.5%, 5%, 10%, and 20%; v/v) in culture medium and with or without FGF-2 (30 ng/mL). MEASUREMENTS: GJIC was evaluated after 48-hour incubation with treatments by laser cytometry. Cells were counted after 72-hour incubation with treatments by using a Coulter counter. RESULTS: The rate of GJIC was greater (p < 0.01) for diabetic than for nondiabetic fibroblasts (3.5 +/- 0.1 versus 3.0 +/- 0.1% per minute during the first 4 minutes after photobleaching). GJIC was increased ( p < 0.05) for diabetic fibroblasts in the presence of 2.5% and 5% of Aloe vera extract (4.2 +/- 0.1 and 4.0 +/- 0.2 versus 3.5 +/- 0.1% per minute for control, respectively). FGF-2 stimulated (p < 0.01) GJIC for diabetic (4.0 +/- 0.1 versus 3.5 +/- 0.1% per minute for control) and nondiabetic (3.5 +/- 0.1 versus 3.0 +/- 0.1% per minute for control) fibroblasts. Aloe vera extract did not affect GJIC of nondiabetic fibroblast cultured without FGF-2. However, Aloe vera extract decreased (p < 0.05) FGF-2 stimulatory effects on GJIC of diabetic and nondiabetic fibroblasts. Proliferation of diabetic fibroblasts was increased (p < 0.05) by 1.25% and 2.5% Aloe vera extract in medium. Proliferation of nondiabetic fibroblasts was not affected by Aloe vera extract. FGF-2 increased (p < 0.05) proliferation of nondiabetic fibroblasts and FGF-2 did not affect proliferation of diabetic fibroblasts. Aloe vera extract decreased (p < 0.05) FGF-2 stimulatory effects on proliferation of nondiabetic fibroblasts. CONCLUSIONS: These data demonstrate that Aloe vera has the ability to stimulate GJIC and proliferation of human skin fibroblasts in diabetes mellitus. Furthermore, these results indicate that Aloe vera contains a compound(s) that neutralizes, binds with FGF-2 receptor, or otherwise alters signaling pathways for FGF-2. By affecting both GJIC and proliferation of diabetic fibroblasts, Aloe vera may improve wound healing in diabetes mellitus.


21

Nutritional support for wound healing.

Author: MacKay,-D; Miller,-A-L

Citation: Altern-Med-Rev. 2003 Nov; 8(4): 359-77

Abstract:
Healing of wounds, whether from accidental injury or surgical intervention, involves the activity of an intricate network of blood cells, tissue types, cytokines, and growth factors. This results in increased cellular activity, which causes an intensified metabolic demand for nutrients. Nutritional deficiencies can impede wound healing, and several nutritional factors required for wound repair may improve healing time and wound outcome. Vitamin A is required for epithelial and bone formation, cellular differentiation, and immune function. Vitamin C is necessary for collagen formation, proper immune function, and as a tissue antioxidant. Vitamin E is the major lipid-soluble antioxidant in the skin; however, the effect of vitamin E on surgical wounds is inconclusive. Bromelain reduces edema, bruising, pain, and healing time following trauma and surgical procedures. Glucosamine appears to be the rate-limiting substrate for hyaluronic acid production in the wound. Adequate dietary protein is absolutely essential for proper wound healing, and tissue levels of the amino acids arginine and glutamine may influence wound repair and immune function. The botanical medicines Centella asiatica and Aloe vera have been used for decades, both topically and internally, to enhance wound repair, and scientific studies are now beginning to validate efficacy and explore mechanisms of action for these botanicals. To promote wound healing in the shortest time possible, with minimal pain, discomfort, and scarring to the patient, it is important to explore nutritional and botanical influences on wound outcome.


22

Effectiveness of Aloe vera on the antioxidant status of different tissues in irradiated rats.

Author: Saada,-H-N; Ussama,-Z-S; Mahdy,-A-M

Citation: Pharmazie. 2003 Dec; 58(12): 929-31

Abstract:
This study was performed to evaluate the role of Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) on the antioxidant status in different tissues of animals whole body exposed to 7 Gy gamma radiations, delivered as a shot dose. Aloe vera (leaf juice filtrate) was supplemented daily to rats (0.25 ml/kg body weight/day), by gavage, 5 days before irradiation and 10 days after irradiation. Experimental investigations performed 3, 7 and 10 days after exposure to radiation showed that Aloe vera treatment has significantly minimized the radiation-induced increase in the amount of malondialdehyde in liver, lungs, and kidney tissues of irradiated rats. Significant amelioration in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities was observed from the 3rd up to the 10th days for lungs, on the 7th and 10th days for kidneys and at 10 days for liver. Data obtained showed that for the different tissues, improvement in the decrease of reduced glutathione (GSH) contents was obvious on the 10th day after irradiation. Treatment with Aloe v era was also effective in minimizing the radiation-induced increase in plasma glucose levels throughout the experimental period, while it has not ameliorated the increase in plasma insulin levels. It could be concluded that the synergistic relationship between the elements found in the leaf of Aloe vera could be a useful adjunct for maintaining the integrity of the antioxidant status.


23

Evaluation of antioxidant potential of aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis miller) extracts.

Author: Hu,-Y; Xu,-J; Hu,-Q

Citation: J-Agric-Food-Chem. 2003 Dec 17; 51(26): 7788-91

Abstract:
The polysaccharide and flavonoid concentrations of two-, three-, and four-year-old Aloe vera were determined, and their antioxidant activities were evaluated compared to BHT and alpha-tocopherol by the DPPH radical scavenging method and the linoleic acid system at 100 microg of soluble solids per mL of ethanol. The results showed that three-year-old Aloe vera contained significantly higher levels of polysaccharides and flavonoids than two- and four-year-old Aloe vera, and no significant differences in flavonoid levels were found between three- and four-year-old Aloe vera. All the aloe extracts showed significant antioxidant activity. The antioxidant activity of Aloe vera extracts and reference compounds followed the order: three-year-old Aloe vera > BHT > four-year-old Aloe vera > alpha-tocopherol > two-year-old Aloe vera. The three-year-old extract exhibited the strongest radical scavenging activity of 72.19%, which is significantly higher than that of BHT at 70.52% and alpha-tocopherol at 65.20%. These data suggest that the growth stage plays a vital role in the composition and antioxidant activity of Aloe vera.


24

Phenolic antioxidants attenuate hippocampal neuronal cell damage against kainic acid induced excitotoxicity.

Author: Parihar,-M-S; Hemnani,-T

Citation: J-Biosci. 2003 Feb; 28(1): 121-8

Abstract:
Increasing evidence supports the role of excitotoxicity in neuronal cell injury. Thus, it is extremely important to explore methods to retard or reverse excitotoxic neuronal injury. In this regard, certain dietary compounds are beginning to receive increased attention, in particular those involving phytochemicals found in medicinal plants in alleviating neuronal injury. In the present study, we examined whether medicinal plant extracts protect neurons against excitotoxic lesions induced by kainic acid (KA) in female Swiss albino mice. Mice were anesthetized with ketamine and xylazine (200 mg and 2 mg/kg body wt. respectively) and KA (0.25 microg in a volume of 0.5 microl) was administered to mice by intra hippocampal injections. The results showed an impairment of the hippocampus region of brain after KA injection. The lipid peroxidation and protein carbonyl content were significantly (P < 0.05) increased in comparison to controls. Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity (EC 1.11.1.9) and reduced glutathione (GSH) content declined after appearance of excitotoxic lesions. As GPx and GSH represent a major pathway in the cell for metabolizing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), their depletion would be expected to allow H2O2 to accumulate to toxic levels. Dried ethanolic plant extracts of Withania somnifera (WS), Convolvulus pleuricauas (CP) and Aloe vera (AV) dissolved in distilled water were tested for their total antioxidant activity. The diet was prepared in terms of total antioxidant activity of plant extracts. The iron (Fe3+) reducing activity of plant extracts was also tested and it was found that WS and AV were potent reductants of Fe3+ at pH 5 5. CP had lower Fe3+ reducing activity in comparison to WS and AV. Plant extracts given singly and in combination 3 weeks prior to KA injections resulted in a decrease in neurotoxicity. Measures of lipid peroxidation and protein carbonyl declined. GPx activity and GSH content were elevated in hippocampus supplemented with WS and combination of WS + CP + AV. However, when CP and AV were given alone, the changes in the GPx activity and GSH content were not significant. Although the major factors involved in these properties of phytochemicals remain to be specified, the finding of this study has suggested that phytochemicals present in plant extracts mitigate the effects of excitotoxicity and oxidative damage in hippocampus and this might be accomplished by their antioxidative properties.


25

Efficacy of dietary aloe vera supplementation on hepatic cholesterol and oxidative status in aged rats.

Author: Lim,-B-O; Seong,-N-S; Choue,-R-W; Kim,-J-D; Lee,-H-Y; Kim,-S-Y; Yu,-B-P; Jeon,-T-I; Park,-D-K

Citation: J-Nutr-Sci-Vitaminol-(Tokyo). 2003 Aug; 49(4): 292-6

Abstract:
In the current study, we show the anti-oxidative and hypocholesterol effects of aloe vera in the liver. Male specific pathogen-free (SPF) Fischer 344 rats were randomly assigned to one of four groups: Group A (control) was fed test chow without aloe supplementation; Group B was fed a diet containing a 1% (per weight basis) freeze-dried aloe filet; Group C was fed a diet containing a 1% (per weight basis) charcoal-processed, freeze-dried aloe filet; and Group D was fed a diet containing a charcoal-processed freeze-dried, whole leaf aloe (0.02% per weight basis) in the drinking water. Our results show that a life-long intake of aloe had superior anti-oxidative action against lipid peroxidation in vivo, as indicated by reduced levels of hepatic phosphatidylcholine hydroperoxide. Additional anti-oxidative action was evidenced by enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activity in groups B and C. Furthermore, our study revealed that hepatic cholesterol significantly increased in the control group during a ging in contrast to the aloe-supplemented groups, which showed approximately 30% lower cholesterol levels, thereby an effective hypocholesteremic efficacy. In this report, we suggest that life-long dietary aloe supplementation suppresses free radical-induced oxidative damage and age-related increases in hepatic cholesterol.


26

Effects of Aloe vera on leukocyte adhesion and TNF-alpha and IL-6 levels in burn wounded rats.

Author: Duansak,-D; Somboonwong,-J; Patumraj,-S

Citation: Clin-Hemorheol-Microcirc. 2003; 29(3-4): 239-46

Abstract:
The effects of Aloe vera on microcirculation and levels of TNF-alpha and IL-6 were investigated in rats after inducing burn. Seventy-two male Wistar Furth rats were equally divided into four groups as follow: controls (CON), untreated burn-wound rats (BURN), normal saline-treated burn-wound rats (BURN-NSS) and Aloe vera-treated burn-wound rats (BURN-ALOE). The animals in each group were equally subdivided into three subgroups for the study on day 3, 7 and 14 post-burn. Dorsal skinfold chamber preparation and intravital fluorescence microscopic technique were performed to examine leukocyte adhesion on postcapillary venules. ELISA techniques were performed to examine serum TNF-alpha and IL-6 levels. It was found that the amount of leukocyte adhesion was significantly reduced in the BURN-ALOE group compared to rats in the BURN group on day 14. Levels of TNF-alpha and IL-6 were also decreased significantly compared to BURN at all three monitored time points. Aloe vera could inhibit the inflammatory process follow ing burn injury, as characterized by the reduction of leukocyte adhesion, as well as those pro-inflammatory cytokines.


27

The effect of aloe emodin on the proliferation of a new merkel carcinoma cell line.

Author: Wasserman, Lina : Avigad, Smadar : Beery, Einat : Nordenberg, Jardena : Fenig, Eyal

Citation: Am-J-Dermatopathol. 2002 Feb; 24(1): 17-22

Abstract:
A free-floating cell line has been established from a metastatic lesion of a Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) patient. The cell line was characterized by immunocytochemical reactions with antibodies against the epithelial and neuroendocrine antigens: cytokeratin 20, neuron-specific enolase, chromogranin A, neurofilament protein, synaptophysin, and calcitonin. Karyotype analysis of the MCC cells showed deletion in chromosomes 3 and 7, loss of chromosome 10, and several translocations in other chromosomes. No mutation was detected in the TP53 gene, after analyzing the complete coding region. Growth factors such as basic fibroblast growth factor, transforming growth factor-beta, and nerve and epidermal growth factors had no effect on the proliferation of the cells. The differentiation-inducing agents sodium butyrate and dimethyl sulfoxide, especially the former, markedly inhibited the proliferation of the MCC cells. Aloe emodin, a natural constituent of aloe vera leaves, significantly inhibited the growth of MCC cells. Aloe emodin has been reported to be nontoxic for normal cells but to possess specific toxicity for neuroectodermal tumor cells. Differentiation-inducing agents, and aloe emodin, merit further investigation as potential agents for treating MCC.


28

Photochemistry and phototoxicity of aloe emodin.

Author: Vath, Peter : Wamer, Wayne G : Falvey, Daniel E

Citation: Photochem-Photobiol. 2002 Apr; 75(4): 346-52

Abstract:
Photochemical pathways leading to the phototoxicity of the aloe vera constituent aloe emodin were studied. The results indicate a photochemical mechanism involving singlet oxygen to be the most likely pathway responsible for the observed phototoxicity. Aloe emodin was found to efficiently generate singlet oxygen when irradiated with UV light (phidelta = 0.56 in acetonitrile). The survival of human skin fibroblast cells in the presence of aloe emodin was found to decrease upon irradiation with UV light. A further decrease in cell survival was observed in D2O compared with H2O, suggesting the involvement of singlet oxygen as the primary pathway. Laser flash photolysis experiments were also carried out on aloe emodin alone and in the presence of various biological substrates. Aloe emodin proved to be relatively photostable (phi = 1 x 10(-4)) and a poor photo-oxidant (E*red = +1.02 V). Only absorption bands caused by the triplet state of aloe emodin (lambdamax = 480 nm) and the aloe emodin conjugate base (lambdamax = 520 nm) were observed in the transient spectra.


29

The influence of long-term Aloe vera ingestion on age-related disease in male Fischer 344 rats.

Author: Ikeno, Y : Hubbard, G B : Lee, S : Yu, B P : Herlihy, J T

Citation: Phytother-Res. 2002 Dec; 16(8): 712-8

Abstract:
The effects of long-term Aloe vera ingestion on age-related diseases were investigated using male specific pathogen-free (SPF) Fischer 344 rats. Experimental animals were divided into four groups: Group A, the control rats fed a semi-synthetic diet without Aloe vera; Group B, rats fed a diet containing 1% freeze-dried Aloe vera filet; Group C, rats fed a diet containing 1% charcoal-processed, freeze-dried Aloe vera filet; and Group D, rats fed the control diet and given whole leaf charcoal-processed Aloe vera (0.02%) in the drinking water. This study demonstrates that life-long Aloe vera ingestion produced neither harmful effects nor deleterious changes. In addition, Aloe vera ingestion appeared to be associated with some beneficial effects on age-related diseases. Groups B exhibited significantly less occurrence of multiple causes of death, and a slightly lower incidence of fatal chronic nephropathy compared with Group A rats. Groups B and C rats showed the trend, slightly lower incidences of thrombosis in the cardiac atrium than Group A rats. Therefore, these findings suggest that life-long Aloe vera ingestion does not cause any obvious harmful and deleterious side effects, and could also be beneficial for the prevention of age-related pathology. Copyright 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.


30

Evaluation of the use of complementary and alternative medicine in the largest United States-Mexico border city.

Author: Rivera, Jose O : Ortiz, Melchor : Lawson, Mark E : Verma, Kalpana M

Citation: Pharmacotherapy. 2002 Feb; 22(2): 256-64

Abstract:
STUDY OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in the El Paso, Texas, region. DESIGN: Prospective observational study conducted from April-October 2000. SETTING: Several hospitals and clinics. SUBJECTS: Five hundred forty-seven participants. INTERVENTION: Semi-structured interview with a bilingual questionnaire. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Complementary and alternative medicine was used in 77% of our population. The most common CAM providers were massage therapists (19.4%) and herbalists (12.4%). The most common herbal or home remedies were chamomile (13.1%) and aloe vera (8.5%). The most common nutritional or commercial products were multivitamins (16%), ginseng (3.6%), and ginkgo biloba (2.8%). We identified 599 CAM usages that could result in drug interactions, disease interactions, or adverse reactions. CONCLUSIONS: A wide range of CAM use was documented in this study. Our results indicate that Hispanics in this area use CAM at a higher rate than national trends. Many of these therapies can adversely affect a variety of disease states and drug therapies.


31

Angiogenic activity of beta-sitosterol in the ischaemia/reperfusion-damaged brain of Mongolian gerbil.

Author: Choi, Seongwon : Kim, Kyu Won : Choi, Jae Sue : Han, Sang Taek : Park, Young In : Lee, Seung Ki : Kim, Jeong Soon : Chung, Myung Hee

Citation: Planta-Med. 2002 Apr; 68(4): 330-5

Abstract:
Aloe vera continues to be used for wound healing as a folk medicine. We previously reported that A. vera gel has angiogenic activity. In this study, we report upon the isolation of an angiogenic component beta-sitosterol from A. vera and examination of its effect upon damaged blood vessels of the Mongolian gerbil. In a chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane assay, beta-sitosterol was found to have an angiogenic effect. It enhanced new vessel formation in gerbil brains damaged by ischaemia/reperfusion, especially in the cingulated cortex and septal regions, in a dose-dependent fashion (up to 500 microg/kg, p less than 0.05, n = 34 - 40). beta-Sitosterol also enhanced the expressions of proteins related to angiogenesis, namely von Willebrand factors, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), VEGF receptor Flk-1, and blood vessel matrix laminin (p less than 0.05, n = 6). In addition, the intraperitoneal administration of beta-sitosterol at 500 microg/kg/day for a period of 19 days significantly improved the motion recovery of ischaemia/reperfusion-damaged gerbils as assessed by rota-rod testing (p less than 0.001, n = 10). Our results suggest that beta-sitosterol has therapeutic angiogenic effects on damaged blood vessels.


32

Antioxidant, free radical scavenging and anti-inflammatory effects of aloesin derivatives in Aloe vera.

Author: Yagi, A : Kabash, A : Okamura, N : Haraguchi, H : Moustafa, S M : Khalifa, T I

Citation: Planta-Med. 2002 Nov; 68(11): 957-60

Abstract:
Antioxidant components in Aloe vera were examined for lipid peroxidation using rat liver microsomal and mitochondrial enzymes. Among the aloesin derivatives examined, isorabaichromone showed a potent antioxidative activity. The DPPH radical and superoxide anion scavenging activities were determined. As one of the most potent components, isorabaichromone together with feruloylaloesin and p-coumaroylaloesin showed potent DPPH radical and superoxide anion scavenging activities. Electron spin resonance (ESR) using the spin trapping method suggested that the potent superoxide anion scavenging activity of isorabaichromone may have been due to its caffeoyl group. As A. vera has long been used to promote wound healing, the inhibitory effects of aloesin derivatives for cyclooxygenase (Cox)-2 and thromboxane (Tx) A 2 synthase were examined and the participation of p-coumaroyl and feruloyl ester groups in the aloesin skeleton was demonstrated. These findings may explain, at least in part, the wound healing effects of A.vera. Abbreviations. ADP:adenosine diphosphate ASA:ascorbic acid BHT:butylated hydroxytoluene BSA:bovine serum albumin DMPO:5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide DPPH:1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl EDTA:edetic acid HEPES: N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-piperazine- N-2'-ethane-sulfonic acid NADH:reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide NADPH:reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate NBT:nitroblue tetrazolium Pg:prostaglandin SOD:superoxide dismutase TBA:thiobarbituric acid TCA:trichloroacetic acid XOD:xanthine oxidase





35

Molecular biological study of aloe vera in the treatment of experimental allergic rhinitis in rat

Author: Yu,-H; Dong,-Z; Yang,-Z

Citation: Lin-Chuang-Er-Bi-Yan-Hou-Ke-Za-Zhi. 2002 May; 16(5): 229-31

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: To study the therapeutic mechanism of aloe vera in allergic rhinitis (AR). METHOD: Ovalbumin sensitized white rat used as animal models of AR were treated intranasally with aloe vera. At the end of treatment, the differences in the behavior science were observed; the changes in the nasal mucosa were studied by pathological; IL-2, IL-4 mRNA in the nasal mucosa and spleen were used to do reverse transcriptive polymerase c hain reaction (RT-PCR). RESULT: The behavior science score of positive controls (8.42 +/- 1.06) was higher than the experimental group (2.02 +/- 0.42) and normal controls (0); inflammatory reactions in the experimental group nasal mucosa were remarkably relieved; the mean expression level of IL-2 mRNA in the experimental group was higher significantly than positive controls (P < 0.01); but that of IL-4 mRNA was lower evidently (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: The aloe vera are suggested to be involved in the differentiation of CD4+ lymphocytes, by means of regulating the expression of Th1 and Th2 cytokines. The results suggests that local aloe vera treatment was a selective and non-traumatic method to treat the allergic rhinitis.


36

Effect of Aloe vera leaves on blood glucose level in type I and type II diabetic rat models.

Author: Okyar, A : Can, A : Akev, N : Baktir, G : Sutlupinar, N

Citation: Phytother-Res. 2001 Mar; 15(2): 157-61

Abstract:
Aloe vera (L.) Burm. fil. (= A. barbadensis Miller) (Liliaceae) is native to North Africa and also cultivated in Turkey. Aloes have long been used all over the world for their various medicinal properties. In the past 15 years, there have been controversial reports on the hypoglycaemic activity of Aloe species, probably due to differences in the parts of the plant used or to the model of diabetes chosen. In this study, separate experiments on three main groups of rats, namely, non-diabetic (ND), type I (IDDM) and type II (NIDDM) diabetic rats were carried out. A. vera leaf pulp and gel extracts were ineffective on lowering the blood sugar level of ND rats. A. vera leaf pulp extract showed hypoglycaemic activity on IDDM and NIDDM rats, the effectiveness being enhanced for type II diabetes in comparison with glibenclamide. On the contrary, A. vera leaf gel extract showed hyperglycaemic activity on NIDDM rats. It may therefore be concluded that the pulps of Aloe vera leaves devoid of the gel could be useful in the treatment of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus Copyright 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.


37

Characterization of Aloeride, a new high-molecular-weight polysaccharide from Aloe vera with potent immunostimulatory activity.

Author: Pugh, N : Ross, S A : ElSohly, M A : Pasco, D S

Citation: J-Agric-Food-Chem. 2001 Feb; 49(2): 1030-4

Abstract:
We have characterized a new immunostimulatory polysaccharide called Aloeride from commercial aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) juice. Aloeride is between 4 and 7 million Da, and its glycosyl components include glucose (37.2%), galactose (23.9%), mannose (19.5%), and arabinose (10.3%). At 0.5 microg/mL Aloeride increased NF-kappa B directed luciferase expression in THP-1 human monocytic cells to levels 50% of those achieved by maximal concentrations (10 microg/mL) of LPS. Aloeride induced the expression of the mRNAs encoding IL-1beta and TNF-alpha to levels equal to those observed in cells maximally activated by LPS. Acemannan, the major carbohydrate component from aloe, used at 200 microg/mL in the macrophage assay resulted in negligible NF-kappa B activation. Analysis of acemannan and Aloeride using size-exclusion chromatography suggests that the low activity of acemannan is due to trace amounts of Aloeride. Although Aloeride comprises only 0.015% of the aloe juice dry weight, its potency for macrophage activation accounts fully for the activity of the crude juice.


38

The wound-healing effect of a glycoprotein fraction isolated from aloe vera.

Author: Choi, S W : Son, B W : Son, Y S : Park, Y I : Lee, S K : Chung, M H

Citation: Br-J-Dermatol. 2001 Oct; 145(4): 535-45

Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Aloe vera has been used as a family medicine for promoting wound healing, but it is not known which component of the plant is effective for this purpose. OBJECTIVES: To isolate and characterize the component effective in wound healing. METHODS: Chromatography, electrophoresis and spectroscopic methods were used. The cell-proliferation activity of each component isolated was measured by a [3H]thymidine uptake assay. The cell-proliferation activity of the effective component was tested on a three-dimensional raft culture (cell culture technique by which artificial epidermis is made from keratinocytes). The effect of the active component on cell migration and wound healing was observed on a monolayer of human keratinocytes and in hairless mice. RESULTS: A glycoprotein fraction was isolated and named G1G1M1DI2. It showed a single band on sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, with an apparent molecular weight of about 5.5 kDa. It exhibited significant [3H]thymidine uptake in squamous cell carcinoma cells. The effect of G1G1M1DI2 on cell migration was confirmed by accelerated wound healing on a monolayer of human keratinocytes. When this fraction was tested on a raft culture, it stimulated the formation of epidermal tissue. Furthermore, proliferation markers (epidermal growth factor receptor, fibronectin receptor, fibronectin, keratin 5/14 and keratin 1/10) were markedly expressed at the immunohistochemical level. The glycoprotein fraction enhanced wound healing in hairless mice by day 8 after injury, with significant cell proliferation. CONCLUSIONS: It is considered that this glycoprotein fraction is involved in the wound-healing effect of aloe vera via cell proliferation and migration.


39

Oxidation of phenolic compounds from Aloe barbadensis by peroxidase activity: Possible involvement in defence reactions.

Author: Esteban Carrasco, A. : Lopez Serrano, M. : Zapata, J.M. : Sabater, B. : Martin, M.

Citation: Plant-Physiology-and-Biochemistry (France). (Jun 2001). v. 39(6) p. 521-527. P79.

Abstract:
Sephadex LH-20 chromatography and reverse phase-high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) have been combined to analyse different phenolics in Aloe barbadensis Mill. Among them, a new chromone peak was found. Whole phenolics, and anthrone and chromone fractions were assayed as substrates of endogenous peroxidases (donor:hydrogen - peroxide oxidoreductase, EC 1.11.1.7) and polyphenol oxidases (1,2-benzenediol:oxygen oxidoreductase, EC 1.10.3.1) by following the disappearance of specific RP-HPLC peaks after appropriate incubations in the presence and in absence of H2O2. Chromones, but not anthrones, were found to be good substrates of peroxidases. It is postulated that peroxidase oxidation of chromones may have a protective and sealing effect against infection after wounding. Polyphenol oxidases may have a secondary, if any, effect.



41

Ethnomedicinal properties of Aloe barbadensis Mill. with particular reference to the people of Nara desert [Pakistan].

Author: Qureshi, R. : Bhatti, G.R. : Shah, M.

Citation: Hamdard-Medicus (Pakistan). (Jul-Sep 2001). v. 44(3) p. 46-50.

Abstract:
Aloe barbadensis Mill. is widely used in the alternative systems of medicine i.e., Ayurvedic, Unani and Homeopathic systems of medicine. It is commonly used in different ailments especially of alimentary tract. The local people employ this plant for different diseases. As an indigenous veterinary medicine its efficacy is reported for the first time from Nara Desert area. Ethnomedicinal survey was documented in order to explore its efficacy in different human diseases as well as in the livestock.



43

Hypotensive Effect of Chemical Constituents from Aloe barbadensis.

Author: Saleem, R : Faizi, S : Shaheen Siddiqui, B : Ahmed, M : Hussain, S A : Qazi, A : Dar, A : Ahmad, S I : Qazi, M H : Akhtar, S : Hasnain, S N

Citation: Planta-Med. 2001 Nov; 67(8): 757-60

Abstract:
Abstract.Hypotensive effects of aloeemodin, aloin A, elgonica dimer A and bisbenzopyran from Aloe barbadensis have been studied. Aloeemodin has emerged as a potent hypotensive agent in current pharmacological investigations and caused 26 %, 52 %, and 79 % falls in mean arterial blood pressure at the corresponding doses of 0.5, 1, and 3 mg/kg in rats. The paper also describes the absolute configuration of elgonica dimer A (1).


44

Herbal therapy: what every facial plastic surgeon must know.

Author: Pribitkin,-E-D; Boger,-G

Citation: Arch-Facial-Plast-Surg. 2001 Apr-Jun; 3(2): 127-32

Abstract:
Herbal medicine (phytomedicine) uses remedies possessing significant pharmacological activity and, consequently, potential adverse effects and drug interactions. The explosion in sales of herbal therapies has brought many products to the marketplace that do not conform to the standards of safety and efficacy that physicians and patients expect. Unfortunately, few surgeons question patients regarding their use of herbal medicines, and 70% of patients do not reveal their use of herbal medicines to their physicians and pharmacists. All surgeons should question patients about the use of the following common herbal remedies, which may increase the risk of bleeding during surgical procedures: feverfew, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, and Asian ginseng. Physicians should exercise caution in prescribing retinoids or advising skin resurfacing in patients using St John's wort, which poses a risk of photosensitivity reaction. Several herbal medicines, such as aloe vera gel, contain pharmacologically active ingredients that may aid in wound healing. Practitioners who wish to recommend herbal medicines to patients should counsel them that products labeled as supplements have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration and that no guarantee of product quality can be made.


45

Use of herbal therapies among midlife Mexican women.

Author: Zenk,-S-N; Shaver,-J-L; Peragallo,-N; Fox,-P; Chavez,-N

Citation: Health-Care-Women-Int. 2001 Sep; 22(6): 585-97

Abstract:
The cultural traditions of Mexican women living in the United States make it likely that some women promote their health and manage their symptoms using various herbal therapies, yet we know little about this phenomenon. The purpose of this study was to describe and compare midlife Mexican women living in the U.S. who were or were not using herbal therapies with regard to the extent of their acculturation, beliefs about herbs, and factors associated with their utilization of health services. A convenience sample of 30 Mexican women between the ages of 40 and 56 years completed face-to-face interviews in either English or Spanish. Nearly half reported using herbal therapies. With the exception of positive beliefs about herbs, we found few differences between herbal users and nonusers on acculturation or access to, and satisfaction with, health services. Although acculturation did not appear to influence whether the women used herbal therapies, it did relate to the types of herbs selected. Women most commonly r eported using herbs popular in traditional Mexican culture, including manzanilla (chamomile), savila (aloe vera), ajo (garlic), una de gato (cat's claw), and yerba buena (spearmint).


46

Isolation and identification of a phenolic antioxidant from Aloe barbadensis.

Author: Lee, K Y : Weintraub, S T : Yu, B P

Citation: Free-Radic-Biol-Med. 2000 Jan 15; 28(2): 261-5

Abstract:
A potent antioxidative compound has been isolated from a methanolic extract of Aloe barbadensis Miller using a combination of column and thin-layer chromatography. The antioxidant activity of this substance was similar to that of alpha-tocopherol as assessed in vitro using rat brain homogenates. On the basis of electrospray ionization and electron-impact ionization mass spectra in combination with reversed-phase, high-performance liquid chromatographic behavior, this compound has been identified as 8-C-beta-D-[2-O-(E)-coumaroyl]glucopyranosyl-2-[2-hydroxy]-propyl-7-methoxy-5-methylchromone.


47

Aloe-emodin is a new type of anticancer agent with selective activity against neuroectodermal tumors.

Author: Pecere, T : Gazzola, M V : Mucignat, C : Parolin, C : Vecchia, F D : Cavaggioni, A : Basso, G : Diaspro, A : Salvato, B : Carli, M : Palu, G

Citation: Cancer-Res. 2000 Jun 1; 60(11): 2800-4

Abstract:
Here we report that aloe-emodin (AE), a hydroxyanthraquinone present in Aloe vera leaves, has a specific in vitro and in vivo antineuroectodermal tumor activity. The growth of human neuroectodermal tumors is inhibited in mice with severe combined immunodeficiency without any appreciable toxic effects on the animals. The compound does not inhibit the proliferation of normal fibroblasts nor that of hemopoietic progenitor cells. The cytotoxicity mechanism consists of the induction of apoptosis, whereas the selectivity against neuroectodermal tumor cells is founded on a specific energy-dependent pathway of drug incorporation. Taking into account its unique cytotoxicity profile and mode of action, AE might represent a conceptually new lead antitumor drug.


48

Aloe polymannose enhances anti-coxsackievirus antibody titres in mice.

Author: Gauntt, C J : Wood, H J : McDaniel, H R : McAnalley, B H

Citation: Phytother-Res. 2000 Jun; 14(4): 261-6

Abstract:
Aloe polymannose (AP), a high mannose biological response modifier (BRM) purified from the Aloe barbadensis Miller plant, was tested for activity in enhancing antibody titres against coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) and CVB3-induced myocarditis in murine models of the disease. Inoculation of mice with AP over a range of three nontoxic doses and in varying schedules did not reduce virus titres in heart tissues or ameliorate virus-induced cardiopathological alterations during acute disease. However, this BRM was found to significantly enhance titres of anti-CVB3 antibodies produced during acute infection of three strains of mice with CVB3. Simultaneous intraperitoneal inoculation of AP at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg body weight per mouse with purified CVB3 significantly increased ELISA titres of anti-CVB3 antibodies and the proportion of mice with these titres, compared with similar parameters in mice inoculated only with CVB3. The data conclusively show that AP can immunopotentiate antibody production against capsid protein epitopes of a nonenveloped picornavirus and suggest this BRM (AP) might be of benefit in enhancing antibody titres against other enteroviruses during a natural infection and poliovirus vaccine strains. Copyright 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.





50

Peroxidase activity in Aloe barbadensis commercial gel: probable role in skin protection.

Author: Esteban, A : Zapata, J M : Casano, L : Martin, M : Sabater, B

Citation: Planta-Med. 2000 Dec; 66(8): 724-7

Abstract:
A basic peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7) (pl around 9.0) has been identified in commercial gel of Aloe barbadensis. In vivo, the activity is localised in the vascular system of inner aqueous leaf parenchyma. Some relevant properties of this basic peroxidase of Aloe have been investigated in leaf extract and in commercial gel where it is notably stable. The acid optimum pH (5.0) for activity and the low KM for H2O2 (0.14 mM) suggest that, when topically applied, Aloe peroxidase may scavenge H2O2 in skin surface.


51

Anti-leukaemic and anti-mutagenic effects of di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate isolated from Aloe vera Linne.

Author: Lee, K H : Kim, J H : Lim, D S : Kim, C H

Citation: J-Pharm-Pharmacol. 2000 May; 52(5): 593-8

Abstract:
Extracts of Aloe vera Linne have been found to exhibit cytotoxicity against human tumour cell lines. This study examines the anti-tumour effects of di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) isolated from Aloe vera Linne, in human and animal cell lines. Its anti-mutagenic effects were examined using Salmonella typhimurium TA98 and TA100 strains. Growth inhibition was specifically exerted by DEHP against three leukaemic cell lines at concentrations below 100 microg mL(-1). At 100 microg mL(-1) DEHP, K562, HL60 and U937 leukaemic cell lines showed growth inhibition of 95, 97 and 95%, respectively. DEHP exhibited an inhibitory activity of 74, 83 and 81%, respectively, in K562, HL60 and U937 cell lines at a concentration of 10 microg mL(-1). At a concentration of 1 microg mL(-1), DEHP exerted an inhibitory activity of 50, 51 and 52%, respectively, in K562, HL60 and U937. In a normal cell line, MDBK, DEHP exerted 30% growth inhibition at a concentration of 100 microg mL(-1), and showed no inhibitory activity at concentrations below 50 microg mL(-1). It was found that DEHP exerted anti-mutagenic activity in the Salmonella mutation assay. The number of mutant colonies of Salmonella typhimurium strain TA98 upon exposure to AF-2 (0.2 microg/plate) decreased in a concentration-dependent manner in the presence of different DEHP concentrations (decreasing to 90.4, 83.9, 75.4, 69.6 and 46.9%, respectively, for DEHP concentrations of 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1 microg/plate). In the case of Salmonella typhimurium strain TA100, DEHP reduced AF-2-induced mutagenicity at 1, 5, 10, 50 and 100 microg/plate to 57.4, 77.5, 80.0, 89.0 and 91.5%, respectively. The isolated compound from Aloe vera Linne, DEHP, was considered to be the active principle responsible for anti-leukaemic and anti-mutagenic effects in-vitro.


52

Modified Aloe barbadensis polysaccharide with immunoregulatory activity.

Author: Qiu, Z : Jones, K : Wylie, M : Jia, Q : Orndorff, S

Citation: Planta-Med. 2000 Mar; 66(2): 152-6

Abstract:
Aloe barbadensis polysaccharide was partially digested with cellulase and further purified by dialysis, stepwise ethanol precipitation, and size exclusion chromatography. Crude modified Aloe polysaccharide (MAP) activated macrophage cells and stimulated fibroblast growth. Under the same conditions, native Aloe barbadensis gel had no effect on macrophage activation. MAP prevented ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation-induced immune suppression as determined by contact hypersensitivity (CHS) response in C3H/HeN mice. This in vivo activity was correlated with the activity of MAP to inhibit UVB irradiation-induced tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) release from human epidermoid carcinoma cells (KB cells). MAP with an average molecular weight of 80,000 Dalton (Da) contained mannose, galactose, and glucose in a ratio of 40:1.4:1.0. MAP was likely a linear, highly acetylated molecule.


53

Therapeutic effects of Aloe vera on cutaneous microcirculation and wound healing in second degree burn model in rats.

Author: Somboonwong, J : Thanamittramanee, S : Jariyapongskul, A : Patumraj, S

Citation: J-Med-Assoc-Thai. 2000 Apr; 83(4): 417-25

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the microcirculatory and wound healing effects of Aloe vera on induced second degree burn wounds in rats. METHOD: A total of 48 male Wistar rats were equally divided into 4 groups as follows: sham controls, untreated burn-wound rats, those treated with once-daily application of normal saline (NSS) and those treated with once-daily application of lyophilized Aloe vera gel. The animals in each group were equally subdivided into 2 subgroups for the study of cutaneous microcirculation and wound healing on day 7 and 14 after burn. Dorsal skinfold chamber preparation and intravital fluorescence microscopic technique were performed to examine dermal microvascular changes, including arteriolar diameter, postcapillary venular permeability and leukocyte adhesion on postcapillary venules. RESULTS: On day 7, the vasodilation and increased postcapillary venular permeability as encountered in the untreated burn were found to be reduced significantly (p less than 0.05) in both the NSS- and Aloe vera-treated groups, but to a greater extent in the latter. Leukocyte adhesion was not different among the untreated, NSS- and Aloe vera-treated groups. On day 14, vasoconstriction occurred after the wound had been left untreated. Only in the Aloe vera-treated groups, was arteriolar diameter increased up to normal condition and postcapillary venular permeability was not different from the sham controls. The amount of leukocyte adhesion was also less observed compared to the untreated and NSS- treated groups. Besides, the healing area of the Aloe vera-treated wound was better than that of the untreated and NSS- treated groups during 7 and 14 days after burn. CONCLUSION: Aloe vera could exhibit the actions of both anti-inflammation and wound healing promotion when applied on a second degree burn wound.


54

Aloe vera: a systematic review of its clinical effectiveness.

Author: Vogler, B K : Ernst, E

Citation: Br-J-Gen-Pract. 1999 Oct; 49(447): 823-8

Abstract:
BACKGROUND: The use of aloe vera is being promoted for a large variety of conditions. Often general practitioners seem to know less than their patients about its alleged benefits. AIM: To define the clinical effectiveness of aloe vera, a popular herbal remedy in the United Kingdom. METHOD: Four independent literature searches were conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Biosis, and the Cochrane Library. Only controlled clinical trials (on any indication) were included. There were no restrictions on the language of publication. All trials were read by both authors and data were extracted in a standardized, pre-defined manner. RESULTS: Ten studies were located. They suggest that oral administration of aloe vera might be a useful adjunct for lowering blood glucose in diabetic patients as well as for reducing blood lipid levels in patients with hyperlipidaemia. Topical application of aloe vera is not an effective preventative for radiation-induced injuries. It might be effective for genital herpes and psoriasis. Whether it promotes wound healing is unclear. There are major caveats associated with all of these statements. CONCLUSION: Even though there are some promising results, clinical effectiveness of oral or topical aloe vera is not sufficiently defined at present.


55

Prevention of ultraviolet radiation-induced suppression of contact hypersensitivity by Aloe vera gel components.

Author: Lee, C K : Han, S S : Shin, Y K : Chung, M H : Park, Y I : Lee, S K : Kim, Y S

Citation: Int-J-Immunopharmacol. 1999 May; 21(5): 303-10

Abstract:
We have recently reported that Aloe vera gel contains small molecular weight immunomodulators, G1C2F1, that restore ultraviolet B (UVB)-suppressed accessory cell function of epidermal Langerhans cells (LC) in vitro. In the present study we evaluated the UVB-protective activity of G1C2F1 in vivo. Exposure of the shaved abdominal skin of mice to 2.4 KJ/m2 of UVB radiation resulted in suppression of contact sensitization through the skin to 41.1%, compared to normal unirradiated skin. Topical application of G1C2F1 immediately after irradiation reduced this suppression significantly. The percentage recovery of UVB-suppressed contact hypersensitivity (CHS) response was 52.3, 77.3, and 86.6% when the irradiated skin was treated once with 0.1, 0.5, and 2.5 mg/ml of G1C2F1-containing cream, respectively. G1C2F1 did not show nonspecific stimulatory activity on CHS response. The present study, together with the previous observation, show that Aloe vera gel contains small molecular weight immunomodulators that prevent UVB-induced immune suppression in the skin by restoration of UVB-induced damages on epidermal LC.


56

In vitro chemopreventive effects of plant polysaccharides (Aloe barbadensis miller, Lentinus edodes, Ganoderma lucidum and Coriolus versicolor).

Author: Kim, H S : Kacew, S : Lee, B M

Citation: Carcinogenesis. 1999 Aug; 20(8): 1637-40

Abstract:
A plant polysaccharide, Aloe gel extract, was reported to have an inhibitory effect on benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P)-DNA adduct formation in vitro and in vivo. Hence, chemopreventive effects of plant polysaccharides [Aloe barbadensis Miller (APS), Lentinus edodes (LPS), Ganoderma lucidum (GPS) and Coriolus versicolor (CPS)] were compared using in vitro short-term screening methods associated with both initiation and promotion processes in carcinogenesis. In B[a]P-DNA adduct formation, APS (180 micrograms/ml) was the most effective in inhibition of B[a]P binding to DNA in mouse liver cells. Oxidative DNA damage (by 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine) was significantly decreased by APS (180 micrograms/ml) and CPS (180 micrograms/ml). In induction of glutathione S-transferase activity, GPS was found to be the most effective among plant polysaccharides. In screening anti-tumor promoting effects, APS (180 micrograms/ml) significantly inhibited phorbol myristic acetate (PMA)-induced ornithine decarboxylase activity in Balb/3T3 cells. In addition, APS significantly inhibited PMA-induced tyrosine kinase activity in human leukemic cells. APS and CPS significantly inhibited superoxide anion formation. These results suggest that some plant polysaccharides produced both anti-genotoxic and anti-tumor promoting activities in in vitro models and, therefore, might be considered as potential agents for cancer chemoprevention.


57

Initial characterization of the effects of Aloe vera at a crayfish neuromuscular junction.

Author: Friedman, R N : Si, K

Citation: Phytother-Res. 1999 Nov; 13(7): 580-3

Abstract:
This study examines the effects of Aloe vera on neurotransmission processes in a well-established invertebrate neuromuscular junction preparation. We studied concentration-response relationships of an Aloe vera extract on excitatory junctional potentials (EJPs) at the opener muscle of the dactyl in the first and second walking limbs of crayfish (Procambarus clarkii and simulans). We observed concentration-dependent depolarizations of the muscle fibre membrane resting potential, depression of EJP amplitudes and an increase in latency to onset of the EJP following electrical stimulation of the isolated excitatory axon in the meropodite. These effects occurred with Aloe concentrations within the 1%-10% (wt-vol) range. Effects of lower concentrations, ranging to a minimum of 0.01% were equivocal. The effects of Aloe were at least partially, and in a majority of cases totally, reversible. EJPs reduced by Aloe could be restored by increasing the nerve stimulation amplitude. This, along with the latency increase, suggests a depression of action potential generation and conduction. The results provide a preliminary characterization of the effects of Aloe vera on the neurotransmission process and suggest that these effects may at least partially account for Aloe's analgesic and antiinflammatory effects. This study shows that the crayfish NMJ preparation should be useful for further elucidating the location(s) and mechanism(s) of action of Aloe on the nervous system. Copyright 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.


58

Inhibition of UV-induced immune suppression and interleukin-10 production by plant oligosaccharides and polysaccharides.

Author: Strickland, F M : Darvill, A : Albersheim, P : Eberhard, S : Pauly, M : Pelley, R P

Citation: Photochem-Photobiol. 1999 Feb; 69(2): 141-7

Abstract:
Application of Aloe barbadensis poly/oligosaccharides to UV-irradiated skin prevents photosuppression of delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) responses in mice. We tested the hypothesis that these carbohydrates belong to a family of biologically active, plant-derived polysaccharides that can regulate responses to injury in animal tissues. C3H mice were exposed to 5 kJ/m2 UVB from unfiltered FS40 sunlamps and treated with between 1 pg and 10 micrograms tamarind xyloglucans or control polysaccharides methylcellulose or dextran in saline. The mice were sensitized 3 days later with Candida albicans. Tamarind xyloglucans and purified Aloe poly/oligosaccharides prevented suppression of DTH responses in vivo and reduced the amount of interleukin (IL)-10 observed in UV-irradiated murine epidermis. Tamarind xyloglucans were immunoprotective at low picogram doses. In contrast, the control polysaccharides methylcellulose and dextran had no effect on immune suppression or cutaneous IL-10 at any dose. Tamarind xyloglucans and Aloe poly/oligosaccharides also prevented suppression of immune responses to alloantigen in mice exposed to 30 kJ/m2 UVB radiation. To assess the effect of the carbohydrates on keratinocytes, murine Pam212 cells were exposed to 300 J/m2 UVB radiation and treated for 1 h with tamarind xyloglucans or Aloe poly/oligosaccharides. Treatment of keratinocytes with immunoprotective carbohydrates reduced IL-10 production by approximately 50% compared with the cells treated with UV radiation alone and completely blocked suppressive activity of the culture supernatants in vivo. The tamarind xyloglucans also blocked UV-activated phosphorylation of SAPK/JNK protein but had no effect on p38 phosphorylation. These results indicate that animals, like plants, may use carbohydrates to regulate responses to environmental stimuli.


59

Aloe vera leaf gel: a review update.

Author: Reynolds, T : Dweck, A C

Citation: J-Ethnopharmacol. 1999 Dec 15; 68(1-3): 3-37

Abstract:
Research since the 1986 review has largely upheld the therapeutic claims made in the earlier papers and indeed extended them into other areas. Treatment of inflammation is still the key effect for most types of healing but it is now realized that this is a complex process and that many of its constituent processes may be addressed in different ways by different gel components. A common theme running though much recent research is the immunomodulatory properties of the gel polysaccharides, especially the acetylated mannans from Aloe vera, which are now a proprietary substance covered by many patents. There have also been, however, persistent reports of active glycoprotein fractions from both Aloe vera and Aloe arborescens. There are also cautionary investigations warning of possible allergic effects on some patients. Reports also describe antidiabetic, anticancer and antibiotic activities, so we may expect to see a widening use of aloe gel. Several reputable suppliers produce a stabilized aloe gel for use as itself or in formulations and there may be moves towards isolating and eventually providing verified active ingredients in dosable quantities


60

Separation and some properties of Aloe vera L. leaf pulp lectins.

Author: Akev, N : Can, A

Citation: Phytother-Res. 1999 Sep; 13(6): 489-93

Abstract:
The separation and partial purification of two lectins from the leaf pulp of Aloe vera L. (=barbadensis Miller) is presented. The fraction showing haemagglutinating activity was precipitated at 50% ammonium sulphate concentration from the crude leaf pulp extract. The precipitate thus obtained, after dialysis, was applied to a hydroxylapatite column. Stepwise elution resulted in two peaks showing haemagglutinating activity eluted with 5 mM (Aloctin I) and 20 mM (Aloctin II) phosphate buffers. Haemagglutinating activity was estimated visually by adding a 4% rabbit erythrocyte suspension to serial two-fold dilutions of the lectins in microtitration plates. None of the 20 sugars tested inhibited haemag--glutinating activity of Aloctin I up a concentration of 500 mM. Aloctin II was inhibited by N-acetyl-D--galactosamine at 250 mM concentration. Of 10 metal ions tested, only Al(3+) salts were found to activate Aloctin I and II. On the other hand, it was shown that neither lectin possessed any alpha- and beta- galactosidase or alpha- and beta- glucosidase activity. The lectins were of glycoprotein structure containing approximately 5% neutral sugar. The specificity of the lectins towards human and rat erythrocytes was investigated. Copyright 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.



62

Influence of Aloe vera on the glycosaminoglycans in the matrix of healing dermal wounds in rats.

Author: Chithra, P : Sajithlal, G B : Chandrakasan, G

Citation: J-Ethnopharmacol. 1998 Jan; 59(3): 179-86

Abstract:
The influence of Aloe vera (L.) Burman f. on the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) components of the matrix in a healing wound was studied. Wound healing is a dynamic and complex sequence of events of which the major one is the synthesis of extracellular matrix components. The early stage of wound healing is characterized by the laying down of a provisional matrix, which is then followed by the formation of granulation tissue and synthesis of collagen and elastin. The provisional matrix or the ground substance consists of GAGs and proteoglycans (PGs), which are protein GAG conjugates. In the present work, we have studied the influence of Aloe vera on the content of GAG and its types in the granulation tissue of healing wounds. We have also reported the levels of a few enzymes involved in matrix metabolism. The amount of ground substance synthesized was found to be higher in the treated wounds, and in particular, hyaluronic acid and dermatan sulphate levels were increased. The levels of the reported glycohydrolases were elevated on treatment with Aloe vera, indicating increased turnover of the matrix. Both topical and oral treatments with Aloe vera were found to have a positive influence on the synthesis of GAGs and thereby beneficially modulate wound healing.


63

The therapeutic potential of Aloe Vera in tumor-bearing rats.

Author: Corsi, M M : Bertelli, A A : Gaja, G : Fulgenzi, A : Ferrero, M E

Citation: Int-J-Tissue-React. 1998; 20(4): 115-8

Abstract:
Aloe Vera has been claimed to contain several important therapeutic properties, including anticancer effects. The effect of Aloe Vera administration was studied on a pleural tumor in rat. Growth of Yoshida AH-130 ascite hepatoma cells injected (2 x 10(5) in 0.1 ml) into pleura of male inbred Fisher rats was evaluated at different times (7th and 14th days). Data show that the use of Aloe Vera proved a therapeutic method, and that the present experimental model could be useful in the study of other therapeutics treatments in vivo.


64

Influence of Aloe vera on collagen characteristics in healing dermal wounds in rats.

Author: Chithra, P : Sajithlal, G B : Chandrakasan, G

Citation: Mol-Cell-Biochem. 1998 Apr; 181(1-2): 71-6

Abstract:
Wound healing is a fundamental response to tissue injury that results in restoration of tissue integrity. This end is achieved mainly by the synthesis of the connective tissue matrix. Collagen is the major protein of the extracellular matrix, and is the component which ultimately contributes to wound strength. In this work, we report the influence of Aloe vera on the collagen content and its characteristics in a healing wound. It was observed that Aloe vera increased the collagen content of the granulation tissue as well as its degree of crosslinking as seen by increased aldehyde content and decreased acid solubility. The type I/type III collagen ratio of treated groups were lower than that of the untreated controls, indicating enhanced levels of type III collagen. Wounds were treated either by topical application or oral administration of Aloe vera to rats and both treatments were found to result in similar effects.


65

In vitro angiogenic activity of Aloe vera gel on calf pulmonary artery endothelial (CPAE) cells.

Author: Lee, M J : Lee, O H : Yoon, S H : Lee, S K : Chung, M H : Park, Y I : Sung, C K : Choi, J S : Kim, K W

Citation: Arch-Pharm-Res. 1998 Jun; 21(3): 260-5

Abstract:
Angiogenic activity of Aloe vera gel was investigated by in vitro assay. We obtained the most active fraction from dichloromethane extract of Aloe vera gel by partitioning between hexane and 90% aqueous methanol. The most active fraction (F3) increased the proliferation of calf pulmonary artery endothelial (CPAE) cells. In addition, F3 fraction induced CPAE cells to invade type 1 collagen gel and form capillary-like tube through in vitro angiogenesis assay, and increased the invasion of CPAE cells into matrigel through in vitro invasion assay. Furthermore, the effect on the mRNA expression of proteolytic enzymes which are key participants in the regulation of extracellular matrix degradation was investigated by northern blot analysis. F3 fraction enhanced mRNA expression of urokinase-type plasminogen activator (u-PA), matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), and membrane-type MMP (MT-MMP) in CPAE cells whereas the expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) mRNA was not changed.


66

Effectiveness of a medicament containing silicon dioxide, aloe, and allantoin on aphthous stomatitis.

Author: Garnick, J J : Singh, B : Winkley, G

Citation: Oral-Surg-Oral-Med-Oral-Pathol-Oral-Radiol-Endod. 1998 Nov; 86(5): 550-6

Abstract:
This research protocol was designed to test the effectiveness of a gel containing silicon dioxide, aloe vera, and allantoin in the healing of recurrent aphthous ulcers. The subjects were patients with histories of developing multiple ulcers on the oral mucosa during a 3-to-4-month period. The parameters used to evaluate healing were number of lesions during a 3-to-4-month period, length of the interval between ulcers, size of ulcers, and pain from ulcers. An approach was used in which data were accumulated from diaries maintained by the subjects throughout the study intervals. Because 3 active substances were present in the gel, a preliminary study (study I) was performed to indicate the effect of each active substance and each combination. In this phase, different combinations of the substances were compared with the use of the 2(3) factorial experimental design. The results of this study demonstrated that statistical differences in the durations of lesions (P = .017) were present when all 3 substances were included in the gel. In the next study (study II), which was initiated to test the results of study I, additional subjects were divided into 2 groups; one used a control gel with silicon dioxide, and the other a gel with all 3 active substances. Study II found no statistical differences in the parameters when the 2 groups were compared. In study III, a modified crossover design was used with the subjects of study II, and a significant difference was found in lesion-free intervals (P = .0335) and length of time for the study (P = .0001). The differences in lesion intervals may have been caused by the differences in study length. Alteration in the occurrence of aphthous ulcers was demonstrated by the reduction in numbers of lesions in study I and by the increase in length of intervals between lesions in study III. However, a consistent pattern was not present; this indicated a lack of effect of the gel on aphthous ulcers.


67

Vitamin C and aloe vera supplementation protects from chemical hepatocarcinogenesis in the rat.

Author: Shamaan, N A : Kadir, K A : Rahmat, A : Ngah, W Z

Citation: Nutrition. 1998 Nov-Dec; 14(11-12): 846-52

Abstract:
The effects of vitamin C and aloe vera gel extract supplementation on induced hepatocarcinogenesis in male Sprague-Dawley rats (120-150 g) by diethylnitrosamine (DEN) and 2-acetylaminofluorene (AAF) was investigated. The severity of the carcinogenesis process was determined by measuring gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and the placental form of glutathione S-transferase (GSTP) histochemically in situ and in plasma and liver fractions. In addition, plasma alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and liver microsomal uridine diphosphate glucuronyl transferase (UDPGT) activity were also determined. Administration of DEN/AAF caused an increase in the surface area and number of enzyme-positive foci (both GGT and GSTP) compared with control. Supplementation of vitamin C or aloe vera gel extract to the cancer-induced rats suppressed this increase significantly (P less than 0.05; P less than 0.001). Increases in liver UDPGT, GGT, and GSTP activities were also observed with cancer induction that were again suppressed with either vitamin C or aloe vera gel supplementation. Plasma GGT in the DEN/AAF rats were determined monthly for the duration of the experiment and found to be reduced as early as 1 mo with aloe vera gel supplementation and 2 mo with vitamin C supplementation. In conclusion, vitamin C and aloe vera gel extract supplementation were found to be able to reduce the severity of chemical hepatocarcinogenesis.


68

Influence of aloe vera on the healing of dermal wounds in diabetic rats.

Author: Chithra, P : Sajithlal, G B : Chandrakasan, G

Citation: J-Ethnopharmacol. 1998 Jan; 59(3): 195-201

Abstract:
The positive influence of Aloe vera, a tropical cactus, on the healing of full-thickness wounds in diabetic rats is reported. Full-thickness excision/incision wounds were created on the back of rats, and treated either by topical application on the wound surface or by oral administration of the Aloe vera gel to the rat. Wound granulation tissues were removed on various days and the collagen, hexosamine, total protein and DNA contents were determined, in addition to the rates of wound contraction and period of epithelialization. Measurements of tensile strength were made on treated/untreated incision wounds. The results indicated that Aloe vera treatment of wounds in diabetic rats may enhance the process of wound healing by influencing phases such as inflammation, fibroplasia, collagen synthesis and maturation, and wound contraction. These effects may be due to the reported hypoglycemic effects of the aloe gel.





72

Antiinflammatory activity of Muktashukti bhasma.

Author: Chauhan, O : Godhwani, J L : Khanna, N K : Pendse, V K

Citation: Indian-J-Exp-Biol. 1998 Oct; 36(10): 985-9

Abstract:
Muktashukti bhasma (MSB), an Ayurvedic compound, consisting of pearl, Aloe vera and vinegar, inhibited acute and subacute inflammation in albino rats as induced by subplanter injection of carrageenan, histamine, 5-HT, nystatin and subcutaneous implant of cotton pellets. In all the test procedures the antiinflammatory response of 1000 mg/kg MSB was comparable to the response observed with 300 mg/kg acetylsalicylic acid (ASA). Oral premedication with MSB delayed castor oil-induced diarrhoea in rats, indicating its prostaglandin inhibitory activity. The antiinflammatory activity of the compound is attributed to its ability to cause inhibition of prostaglandins, histamine and 5-HT and also by stabilization of the lysosomal membranes. The antiinflammatory activity of MSB seems one third to half as potent as ASA.


73

Influence of Aloe vera on collagen turnover in healing of dermal wounds in rats.

Author: Chithra, P : Sajithlal, G B : Chandrakasan, G

Citation: Indian-J-Exp-Biol. 1998 Sep; 36(9): 896-901

Abstract:
Treatment of full-thickness wounds with A. vera, on rats resulted in increased biosynthesis of collagen and its degradation. A corresponding increase in the urinary excretion of hydroxyproline was also observed. Elevated levels of lysyl oxidase also indicated increased crosslinking of newly synthesised collagen. The results suggest that A. vera influences the wound healing process by enhancing collagen turnover in the wound tissue.



76

Prevention of ultraviolet radiation-induced suppression of accessory cell function of Langerhans cells by Aloe vera gel components.

Author: Lee, C K : Han, S S : Mo, Y K : Kim, R S : Chung, M H : Park, Y I : Lee, S K : Kim, Y S

Citation: Immunopharmacology. 1997 Oct; 37(2-3): 153-62

Abstract:
The active components of Aloe vera gel that can prevent ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced suppression of accessory cell function of Langerhans cells (LC) were purified by activity-guided sequential fractionation followed by in vitro functional assay. The functional assay was based on the fact that exposure of freshly isolated murine epidermal cells (EC) to UVB radiation resulted in impairment of accessory cell function of LC, as measured by their ability to support anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody (mAb)-primed T-cell mitogenesis. This UVB-suppressed LC accessory cell function was prevented by addition of partially purified Aloe gel components to cultures of UVB-irradiated EC. The Aloe gel components appeared to prevent events occurring within the first 24 h after UVB irradiation that lead to the impairment of accessory cell function. The Aloe gel components did not cause proliferation of anti-CD3 mAb-primed T-cells, nor did induce proliferation of normal EC. The activity-guided final purification of Aloe gel components resulted in the isolation of two components. Both of the components were small molecular weight (MW) substances with an apparent MW of less than 1,000 Da but different from each other in net charge characteristics at pH 7.4. These results suggest that Aloe vera gel contains at least two small molecular weight immunomodulators that may prevent UVB-induced immune suppression in the skin.


77

Inhibition of benzo[a]pyrene-DNA adduct formation by Aloe barbadensis Miller.

Author: Kim, H S : Lee, B M

Citation: Carcinogenesis. 1997 Apr; 18(4): 771-6

Abstract:
The antigenotoxic and chemopreventive effect of Aloe barbadensis Miller (polysaccharide fraction) on benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P)-DNA adducts was investigated in vitro and in vivo. Aloe showed a time-course and dose-dependent inhibition of [3H]B[a]P-DNA adduct formation in primary rat hepatocytes (1x10(6) cells/ml) treated with [3H]B[a]P (4 nmol/ml). At concentrations of 0.4-250 microg/ml aloe, the binding of [3H]B[a]P metabolites to rat hepatocyte DNA was inhibited by 9.1-47.9%. Also, in rat hepatocytes cultured for 3-48 h with aloe (250 microg/ml) and [3H]B[a]P (4 nmol/ml), [3H]B[a]P-DNA adducts were significantly reduced by 36% compared with [3H]B[a]P alone. Aloe also inhibited cellular uptake of [3H]B[a]P in a dose-dependent manner at a concentration of 0.4-250 microg/ml by 6.3-34.1%. After a single oral administration of B[a]P to male ICR mice (10 mg/mouse), benzo[a]pyrene diol epoxide I (BPDE-I)-DNA adduct formation and persistence for 16 days following daily treatment with aloe (50 mg/mouse) were quantitated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using monoclonal antibody 8E11. In this animal model, BPDE-I-DNA adduct formation was significantly inhibited in various organs (liver, kidney, forestomach and lung) (P less than 0.001). When mice were pretreated with aloe for 16 days before B[a]P treatment, inhibition of BPDE-I-DNA adduct formation and persistence was enhanced. Glutathione S-transferase activity was slightly increased in the liver but cytochrome P450 content was not affected by aloe. These results suggest that the inhibitory effect of aloe on BPDE-I-DNA adduct formation might have a chemopreventive effect by inhibition of B[a]P absorption.


78

Effect of the combination of Aloe vera, nitroglycerin, and L-NAME on wound healing in the rat excisional model.

Author: Heggers, J P : Elzaim, H : Garfield, R : Goodheart, R : Listengarten, D : Zhao, J : Phillips, L G

Citation: J-Altern-Complement-Med. 1997 Summer; 3(2): 149-53

Abstract:
PURPOSE: Many systemic and topical therapeutic agents such as growth hormone, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), fibroblast growth factor (FGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and insulin-like growth factor (IGF) have been used as vulnerary agents. However, the role of nitric oxide (NO) as a wound-healing stimulant has been received with mixed reviews. NO is a potent vasodilator that is thought to be an endothelium-dependent relaxing factor, and a regulator of blood pressure and regional blood flow. It affects vascular smooth muscle proliferation and inhibits platelet aggregation and leukocyte adhesion. Therefore we compared the effects of several topical substances that have similar or reverse properties. METHODS: Using the excisional rat wound model, we evaluated the topical effects of Dermaide Aloe (D-Aloe, Dermaide Research Corp, Palos Heights, IL), nitroglycerin, Aquaphor (Beuersdorf, Inc., Norwalk, CT) alone, with D-Aloe with nitroglycerin, 2%, and L-NAME (NO inhibitor) with Aquaphor, and L-NAME with Aquaphor and D-Aloe for a 21-day period. All wounds were measured by planimetry at 1, 7, 10, 13, 16, 18, and 21 days. RESULTS: At day 1, all wounds had an average wound size of 2.27 cm2 (SD +/- 0.372) with no significant difference in wound size among the groups. Topically applied D-Aloe appeared to promote wound healing faster than the remaining other topicals (p less than .05, Student-Newman-Keuls and Dunn's Method) over the study period. However, topicals combined with D-Aloe, the vehicle Aquaphor, and L-NAME improved the wound healing process when compared with nitroglycerin alone (p less than .05). CONCLUSIONS: D-Aloe appears to have a wound-healing advancement factor that can reverse the effects of petrolatum- and nitroglycerin-based products as observed in the remaining groups when compared with nitroglycerin alone. It appears that D-Aloe's effect of preventing dermal ischemia by reversing the effects of thromboxane synthetase (TxA2) may act synergistically with NO or could be an oxygen radical scavenger.


79

Cytotoxicity of a low molecular weight fraction from Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) gel.

Author: Avila, H : Rivero, J : Herrera, F : Fraile, G

Citation: Toxicon. 1997 Sep; 35(9): 1423-30

Abstract:
The cytotoxicity of a low mol. wt fraction (LMWF) obtained from Aloe vera gel was determined by two different assays. Firstly, exposure of monolayers of chicken fibroblasts to LMWF induced disruption of intercellular junctions and detachment of individual cells from the bottom of the flask, with formation of cell-free gaps in the monolayer. Secondly, LMWF inhibited the production of reactive oxygen species by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes stimulated by zymosan, as followed by luminol-dependent chemiluminescence. The toxic activity of LMWF was compared to that of sodium dodecyl sulfate (a well-known toxic substance), aloe-emodin and aloin (an anthraquinone and its precursor present in Aloe vera cortex) using the chemilumescence assay, and was found to be of similar potency to these toxic substances on a weight-to-weight basis. These results confirm that Aloe vera gel contains toxic low mol. wt compounds, and every effort must be made to limit the amount of these toxins in the commercially prepared Aloe vera gel products.


80

Activation of a mouse macrophage cell line by acemannan: the major carbohydrate fraction from Aloe vera gel.

Author: Zhang, L : Tizard, I R

Citation: Immunopharmacology. 1996 Nov; 35(2): 119-28

Abstract:
Acemannan is the name given to the major carbohydrate fraction obtained from the gel of the Aloe vera leaf. It has been claimed to have several important therapeutic properties including acceleration of wound healing, immune stimulation, anti-cancer and anti-viral effects. However, the biological mechanisms of these activities are unclear. Because of this wide diversity of effects, it is believed that they may be exerted through pluripotent effector cells such as macrophages. The effects of acemannan on the mouse macrophage cell line, RAW 264.7 cells were therefore investigated. It was found that acemannan could stimulate macrophage cytokine production, nitric oxide release, surface molecule expression, and cell morphologic changes. The production of the cytokines IL-6 and TNF-alpha were dependent on the dose of acemannan provided. Nitric oxide production, cell morphologic changes and surface antigen expression were increased in response to stimulation by a mixture of acemannan and IFN-gamma. These results suggest that acemannan may function, at least in part, through macrophage activation.


81

Antiinflammatory activity of extracts from Aloe vera gel.

Author: Vazquez, B : Avila, G : Segura, D : Escalante, B

Citation: J-Ethnopharmacol. 1996 Dec; 55(1): 69-75

Abstract:
We studied the effects of aqueous, chloroform, and ethanol extracts of Aloe vera gel on carrageenan-induced edema in the rat paw, and neutrophil migration into the peritoneal cavity stimulated by carrageenan. We also studied the capacity of the aqueous extract to inhibit cyclooxygenase activity. The aqueous and chloroform extracts decreased the edema induced in the hind-paw and the number of neutrophils migrating into the peritoneal cavity, whereas the ethanol extract only decreased the number of neutrophils. The antiinflammatory agents indomethacin and dexamethasone also decreased carrageenan-induced edema and neutrophil migration. The aqueous extract inhibited prostaglandin E2 production from [14C]arachidonic acid. The chemical tests performed in the aqueous extract for anthraglycosides, reductor sugars and cardiotonic glycosides were positive. In the ethanol extract, the chemical tests performed for saponins, carbohydrates naftoquinones, sterols, triterpenoids and anthraquinones were also positive. In the chloroform extract, the chemical tests performed for sterols type delta 5, and anthraquinones were positive. These results demonstrated that the extracts of Aloe vera gel have antiinflammatory activity and suggested its inhibitory action on the arachidonic acid pathway via cyclooxygenase.


82

Management of psoriasis with Aloe vera extract in a hydrophilic cream: a placebo-controlled, double-blind study.

Author: Syed, T A : Ahmad, S A : Holt, A H : Ahmad, S A : Ahmad, S H : Afzal, M

Citation: Trop-Med-Int-Health. 1996 Aug; 1(4): 505-9

Abstract:
The purpose of this double-blind, placebo-controlled study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy and tolerability of topical Aloe vera extract 0.5% in a hydrophilic cream to cure patients with psoriasis vulgaris. Sixty patients (36M/24F) aged 18-50 years (mean 25.6) with slight to moderate chronic plaque-type psoriasis and PASI (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index) scores between 4.8 and 16.7 (mean 9.3) were enrolled and randomized to two parallel groups. The mean duration of the disease prior to enrollment was 8.5 years (range 1-21). Patients were provided with a precoded 100g tube, placebo or active (with 0.5% Aloe vera extract), and they self-administered trial medication topically (without occlusion) at home 3 times daily for 5 consecutive days per week (maximum 4 weeks active treatment). Patients were examined on a weekly basis and those showing a progressive reduction of lesions, desquamation followed by decreased erythema, infiltration and lowered PASI score were considered healed. The study was scheduled for 16 weeks with 12 months of follow-up on a monthly basis. The treatment was well tolerated by all the patients, with no adverse drug-related symptoms and no dropouts. By the end of the study, the Aloe vera extract cream had cured 25/30 patients (83.3%) compared to the placebo cure rate of 2/30 (6.6%) (P less than 0.001) resulting in significant clearing of the psoriatic plaques (328/396 (82.8%) vs placebo 28/366 (7.7%), P less than 0.001) and a decreased PASI score to a mean of 2.2. The findings of this study suggest that topically applied Aloe vera extract 0.5% in a hydrophilic cream is more effective than placebo, and has not shown toxic or any other objective side-effects. Therefore, the regimen can be considered a safe and alternative treatment to cure patients suffering from psoriasis.


83

Phase III double-blind evaluation of an aloe vera gel as a prophylactic agent for radiation-induced skin toxicity.

Author: Williams, M S : Burk, M : Loprinzi, C L : Hill, M : Schomberg, P J : Nearhood, K : O'Fallon, J R : Laurie, J A : Shanahan, T G : Moore, R L : Urias, R E : Kuske, R R : Engel, R E : Eggleston, W D

Citation: Int-J-Radiat-Oncol-Biol-Phys. 1996 Sep 1; 36(2): 345-9

Abstract:
PURPOSE: Considerable pilot data and clinical experience suggested that an aloe vera gel might help to prevent radiation therapy-induced dermatitis. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Two Phase III randomized trials were conducted. The first one was double blinded, utilized a placebo gel, and involved 194 women receiving breast or chest wall irradiation. The second trial randomized 108 such patients to aloe vera gel vs. no treatment. Skin dermatitis was scored weekly during both trials both by patients and by health care providers. RESULTS: Skin dermatitis scores were virtually identical on both treatment arms during both of the trials. The only toxicity from the gel was rare contact dermatitis. CONCLUSIONS: This dose and schedule of an aloe vera gel does not protect against radiation therapy-induced dermatitis.


84

Zinc acetate and lyophilized aloe barbadensis as vaginal contraceptive.

Author: Fahim, M S : Wang, M

Citation: Contraception. 1996 Apr; 53(4): 231-6

Abstract:
Twenty samples of fresh ejaculate, donated by healthy volunteers ranging in age from 20-30 years, were obtained from the Center for Fertility & Cryobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri. Average semen volume was 2.49 ml; average sperm motility was 71.32%; and average sperm density was 113.71 x 10(6) /ml. Testing for spermicidal effectiveness of a 1% concentration of zinc acetate, zinc sulfate, zinc chloride, and zinc gluconate proved that only zinc acetate was spermicidal. It appears this is due to the acetate in zinc acetate which may decrease oxygen utilization by sperm. Zinc acetate in vitro was antiviral while lyophilized aloe barbadensis was not. Lyophilized aloe barbadensis at concentrations of 7.5% and 10% proved to be spermicidal due to the multiple micro elements (boron, barium, calcium, chromium, copper, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and zinc) which were toxic to the tail causing instant immobilization. The two compounds did not irritate or cause ulceration of rabbit vaginal epithelium. These results suggest the possibility of using zinc acetate and lyophilized aloe barbadensis as a new, effective and safe vaginal contraceptive.


85

The preventive and therapeutic potential of the squalene-containing compound, Roidex, on tumor promotion and regression.

Author: Desai, K N : Wei, H : Lamartiniere, C A

Citation: Cancer-Lett. 1996 Mar 19; 101(1): 93-6

Abstract:
Recent scientific evidence has shown free radicals or reactive oxygen species (ROS) to play an important role in the initiation and progression of cancer. Many radical scavengers have also been found to help reduce the attacks by these ROS. Interestingly, the ROS scavengers that have been investigated are naturally occurring compounds such as vitamins C and E. Roidex is a formulation of squalene, vitamin e, and aloe vera. It was our goal to investigate whether Roidex was able to prevent the development of chemically induced cancer and to cause regression of any tumors already formed in a mouse skin model. In the prevention study, skin tumors were initiated in 50 female CD-1 mice with 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]-anthracene (DMBA) and promoted with 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA). The mice were treated with either mineral oil, 5% squalene, or Roidex. At the end of the prevention study, there was a 33.34% incidence to tumors (multiplicity of 1.40) in the mineral oil-treatment group, 26.67% (multiplicity of 0.467) in the 5% squalene and Roidex groups, respectively. The tumor regression study involved the selection of mice with tumors and possible regression of these tumors with Roidex treatment. There was a regression of 33.34% of the tumors in the Roidex-treated group (39 tumors to 26 tumors) compared to the non-treated group whose tumors regressed only 3.44% (29 tumors to 28 tumors).


86

Antiinflammatory C-glucosyl chromone from Aloe barbadensis.

Author: Hutter, J A : Salman, M : Stavinoha, W B : Satsangi, N : Williams, R F : Streeper, R T : Weintraub, S T

Citation: J-Nat-Prod. 1996 May; 59(5): 541-3

Abstract:
A new antiinflammatory agent identified as 8-[C-beta-D-[2-O-(E)-cinnamoyl]glucopyranosyl]-2- [(R)-2-hydroxypropyl]-7-methoxy-5-methylchromone (1) has been isolated from Aloe barbadensis Miller. At a dose of 200 microg/mouse ear, 1 exhibited topical antiinflammatory activity equivalent to 200 microg/ear of hydrocortisone. There was no reduction in thymus weight caused by treatment with 1 for any of the doses tested, while 200 microg/ear of hydrocortisone resulted in a 50% decrease in thymus weight.




88

Treatment of experimental frostbite with pentoxifylline and aloe vera cream.

Author: Miller, M B : Koltai, P J

Citation: Arch-Otolaryngol-Head-Neck-Surg. 1995 Jun; 121(6): 678-80

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: To compare the therapeutic effects of systemic pentoxifylline and topical aloe vera cream in the treatment of frostbite. DESIGN: The frostbitten ears of 10 New Zealand white rabbits were assigned to one of four treatment groups: untreated controls, those treated with aloe vera cream, those treated with pentoxifylline, and those treated with aloe vera cream and pentoxifylline. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Tissue survival was calculated as the percent of total frostbite area that remained after 2 weeks. RESULTS: The control group had a 6% tissue survival. Tissue survival was notably improved with pentoxifylline (20%), better with aloe vera cream (24%), and the best with the combination therapy (30%). CONCLUSION: Pentoxifylline is as effective as aloe vera cream in improving tissue survival after frostbite injury.



90

Effect of aloe vera gel to healing of burn wound a clinical and histologic study.

Author: Visuthikosol, V : Chowchuen, B : Sukwanarat, Y : Sriurairatana, S : Boonpucknavig, V

Citation: J-Med-Assoc-Thai. 1995 Aug; 78(8): 403-9

Abstract:
In a study of twenty-seven patients with partial thickness burn wound, they were treated with aloe vera gel compared with vaseline gauze. It revealed the aloe vera gel treated lesion healed faster than the vaseline gauze area. The average time of healing in the aloe gel area was 11.89 days and 18.19 days for the vaseline gauze treated wound. Statistical analysis by using t-test and the value of P less than 0.002 was statistically significant. In histologic study, it showed early epithelialization in the treated aloe vera gel area. Only some minor adverse effects, such as discomfort and pain were encountered in the 27 cases. This study showed the effectiveness of aloe vera gel on a partial thickness burn wound, and it might be beneficial to do further trials on burn wounds.


91

Anti-inflammatory and wound healing activity of a growth substance in Aloe vera.

Author: Davis, R H : Donato, J J : Hartman, G M : Haas, R C

Citation: J-Am-Podiatr-Med-Assoc. 1994 Feb; 84(2): 77-81

Abstract:
Aloe vera improves wound healing and inhibits inflammation. Since mannose-6-phosphate is the major sugar in the Aloe gel, the authors examined the possibility of its being an active growth substance. Mice receiving 300 mg/kg of mannose-6-phosphate had improved wound healing over saline controls. This dose also had anti-inflammatory activity. The function of mannose-6-phosphate in A. vera is discussed.


92

Aloe vera, hydrocortisone, and sterol influence on wound tensile strength and anti-inflammation.

Author: Davis, R H : DiDonato, J J : Johnson, R W : Stewart, C B

Citation: J-Am-Podiatr-Med-Assoc. 1994 Dec; 84(12): 614-21

Abstract:
Aloe vera at doses of 100 and 300 mg/kg daily for 4 days blocked the wound healing suppression of hydrocortisone acetate up to 100% using the wound tensile strength assay. This response was because of the growth factors present in A. vera masking the wound healing inhibitors such as sterols and certain amino acids. The sterols showed good anti-inflammatory activity (-36%) in reducing the croton oil-induced ear swelling. This activity displayed a dose-response relationship.



96

Toxicologic evaluation of injectable acemannan in the mouse, rat and dog.

Author: Fogleman, R W : Chapdelaine, J M : Carpenter, R H : McAnalley, B H

Citation: Vet-Hum-Toxicol. 1992 Jun; 34(3): 201-5

Abstract:
Acemannan, the USAN-accepted name for long-chain polydispersed beta-(1,4)-acetylated polymannose with interspersed 0-acetyl groups with a mannose monomer/acetyl ratio of approximately 1:1 and extracted from Aloe vera (barbadensis Miller), was administered as a 1.0 mg/ml solution to mice, rats and dogs, either as single dose or repeated at 4-d intervals for 8 doses by iv or ip routes. No significant signs of intoxication and no deaths occurred in animals treated with the single injection of acemannan at dosages of 80 mg/kg iv or 200 mg/kg ip in mice, 15 mg/kg iv or 50 mg/kg ip in rats, and 10 mg/kg iv or 50 mg/kg ip in dogs. On repeated injections systemic toxicity was limited to obvious transient discomfort that appeared dose related. There was accumulation of macrophages and monocytes without subsequent inflammatory reaction in lungs of the iv-treated animals, and in liver and spleen and on peritoneal surfaces of ip-treated animals. The effects were not considered adverse, but were consistent with the known immune stimulating activity of acemannan. A few deaths occurred in mice and rats that were suggestive of resulting from improper injection or sequella of necrosis of the injection site. The NOAELs for acemannan determined from these repeated injection studies were 20 mg/kg iv or ip in the mouse, 4.0 mg/kg iv and 50 mg/kg ip in the rat, and 1.0 mg/kg iv in dogs; 5.0 mg acemannan/kg ip in the dog was considered to be LOAEL, based on the emesis and abdominal discomfort induced.


97

Inactivation of enveloped viruses by anthraquinones extracted from plants.

Author: Sydiskis, R J : Owen, D G : Lohr, J L : Rosler, K H : Blomster, R N

Citation: Antimicrob-Agents-Chemother. 1991 Dec; 35(12): 2463-6

Abstract:
To determine the extent of antiviral activity present in a number of plant extracts, hot glycerin extracts were prepared from Rheum officinale, Aloe barbadensis, Rhamnus frangula, Rhamnus purshianus, and Cassia angustifolia and their virucidal effects were tested against herpes simplex virus type 1. All the plant extracts inactivated the virus. The active components in these plants were separated by thin-layer chromatography and identified as anthraquinones. A purified sample of aloe emodin was prepared from aloin, and its effects on the infectivity of herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2, varicella-zoster virus, pseudorabies virus, influenza virus, adenovirus, and rhinovirus were tested by mixing virus with dilutions of aloe emodin for 15 min at 37 degrees C, immediately diluting the sample, and assaying the amount of infectious virus remaining in the sample. The results showed that aloe emodin inactivated all of the viruses tested except adenovirus and rhinovirus. Electron microscopic examination of anthraquinone-treated herpes simplex virus demonstrated that the envelopes were partially disrupted. These results show that anthraquinones extracted from a variety of plants are directly virucidal to enveloped viruses.


98

Experimental study of the hypoglycemic effect of some antidiabetic plants.

Author: Roman Ramos, R : Flores Saenz, J L : Partida Hernandez, G : Lara Lemus, A : Alarcon Aguilar, F

Citation: Arch-Invest-Med-(Mex). 1991 Jan-Mar; 22(1): 87-93

Abstract:
The purpose of this work is to look for the hypoglycemic effect of 12 plants most used in Mexico for controlling diabetes mellitus. The studies were realized in 27 rabbits submitted weekly to glucose tolerance tests after gastric administration of water, tolbutamide or a preparation of the plant. The results showed that tolbutamide and studied plants (except Aloe barbadensis) decreased significantly (p less than 0.05) the area under glucose tolerance curve, in relation with the water control. The strongest effect was yielded by Psacalium peltatum (27.9%), followed by Curcubita ficifolia (26.4%), Lepechinia caulescens (26.0%), Opuntia streptacantha (21.4%), Slanum verbascifolum (21.1%), Teucrium cubense (19.4%), Cecropia obtusifolia (18.9%), Phaseolus vulgaris (18.5%), Tecoma stans (17.5%), Eriobotrya japonica (17.2%), Salpianthus macrodonthus (15.0%), tolbutamide (14.3%), and Aloe barbadensis (1.4%). Our results point out that the majority of the plants most used by the Mexican population to control diabetes mellitus have an evident hypoglycemic action.


99

Isolation of a stimulatory system in an Aloe extract.

Author: Davis, R H : Parker, W L : Samson, R T : Murdoch, D P

Citation: J-Am-Podiatr-Med-Assoc. 1991 Sep; 81(9): 473-8

Abstract:
The authors' previous work on a 50% ethanol extract of Aloe vera was done to evaluate anti-inflammatory activity using the croton oil-induced ear swelling assay. The anti-inflammatory activity was found in the supernatant fraction. The supernatant fraction decreased inflammation, when applied topically, by 29.2%, and the precipitate decreased inflammation by 12.1%. However, in the present work, the precipitate fraction decreased the wound diameter by an average of 47.1% (stimulatory system). Little or no wound healing activity was found in the supernatant. Aloe vera appears to act as a modulatory system toward wounds and inflammation and is a potentially valuable tool for managing lower extremity conditions.


100

The isolation of an active inhibitory system from an extract of aloe vera.

Author: Davis, R H : Parker, W L : Samson, R T : Murdoch, D P

Citation: J-Am-Podiatr-Med-Assoc. 1991 May; 81(5): 258-61

Abstract:
An Aloe vera extract was prepared with 50% ethanol. The resultant supernatant and precipitate were tested for anti-inflammatory activity using the croton oil-induced ear-swelling assay. The supernatant fraction decreased inflammation, when applied topically, by 29.2%, and the precipitate decreased inflammation by 12.1%. The authors have shown that the anti-inflammatory activity (inhibitory system) resides in the supernatant of a 50% ethanol extract.


102

Aloe vera as a biologically active vehicle for hydrocortisone acetate.

Author: Davis, R H : Parker, W L : Murdoch, D P

Citation: J-Am-Podiatr-Med-Assoc. 1991 Jan; 81(1): 1-9

Abstract:
Aloe vera, as a biological vehicle for hydrocortisone 21-acetate, was tested topically and systemically against acute inflammation. Systemically, the combination of A. vera and hydrocortisone produced a maximum 88.1% inhibition of edema. Polymorphonuclear leukocyte infiltration was reduced 91.1%. The topical inhibition of edema peaked at 97%. The possibility that A. vera has significant potential as a biologically active vehicle for steroids is discussed.


103

Adverse reactions to vitamin E and aloe vera preparations after dermabrasion and chemical peel.

Author: Hunter, D : Frumkin, A

Citation: Cutis. 1991 Mar; 47(3): 193-6

Abstract:
Three women and one man aged forty-one to sixty-five years experienced a severe burning sensation following the application of aloe vera or vitamin E preparations to a skin area that had been subjected to a chemical peel or dermabrasion. Subsequently, a severe dermatitis occurred that required hospitalization of one patient and intravenous administration of steroids. The dermatitis abated very slowly in all patients: full recovery took three months or more. One patient resumed the use of vitamin E creams two years after the episode of dermatitis and experienced no adverse effect. Patients undergoing dermabrasion or chemical peel procedures should be cautioned specifically against the use of aloe vera or vitamin E topically in the first weeks after surgery.


104

Aloe vera dermal wound gel is associated with a delay in wound healing.

Author: Schmidt, J M : Greenspoon, J S

Citation: Obstet-Gynecol. 1991 Jul; 78(1): 115-7

Abstract:
We evaluated the time interval required for wound healing using a standard wound management protocol with and without aloe vera gel. Twenty-one women were studied who had wound complications requiring healing by second intention after cesarean delivery or laparotomy for gynecologic surgery. Wounds treated with standard management healed in a mean (+/- SD) time interval of 53 +/- 24 days, whereas those treated with aloe vera gel required 83 +/- 28 days (P = .003). The use of aloe vera dermal wound gel was associated with a significant delay in wound healing compared with treatment with an otherwise identical regimen that did not include aloe vera.


105

The stimulation of postdermabrasion wound healing with stabilized aloe vera gel-polyethylene oxide dressing.

Author: Fulton, J E

Citation: J-Dermatol-Surg-Oncol. 1990 May; 16(5): 460-7

Abstract:
Full-face dermabrasion provided an ideal opportunity to document the effects of dressings on wound healing management. Following the procedure, the abraded face was divided in half. One side was treated with the standard polyethylene oxide gel wound dressings. The other side was treated with a polyethylene oxide gel dressing saturated with stabilized aloe vera. The polyethylene oxide dressing provided an excellent matrix for the release of aloe vera gel during the initial 5 days of wound healing. By 24-48 hours there was dramatic vasoconstriction and accompanying reduction in edema on the aloe-treated side. By the third to fourth day there was less exudate and crusting at the aloe site, and by the fifth to sixth day the reepithelialization at the aloe site was complete. Overall, wound healing was approximately 72 hours faster at the aloe site. This acceleration in wound healing is important to reduce bacterial contamination, subsequent keloid formation, and/or pigmentary changes. The exact mechanism of acceleration of wound healing by aloe vera is unknown.


106

Effect of aloes on blood glucose levels in normal and alloxan diabetic mice.

Author: Ajabnoor, M A

Citation: J-Ethnopharmacol. 1990 Feb; 28(2): 215-20

Abstract:
The acute and chronic effects of the exudate of Aloe barbadensis leaves and its bitter principle were studied on plasma glucose levels of alloxan-diabetic mice. Aloes was administered orally, 500 mg/kg, and the bitter principle was administered intraperitoneally, 5 mg/kg. The hypoglycemic effect of a single oral dose of aloes on serum glucose level was insignificant whereas that of the bitter principle was very highly significant and extended over a period of 24 h with maximum hypoglycemia observed at +8 h. In chronic studies, aloes was administered twice daily and the bitter principle was administered once a day for 4 days. The maximum reduction in plasma glucose level was observed at the 5th day in both cases. The hypoglycemic effect of aloes and its bitter principle may be mediated through stimulating synthesis and/or release of insulin from the beta-cells of Langerhans.


107

Effects of low molecular constituents from Aloe vera gel on oxidative metabolism and cytotoxic and bactericidal activities of human neutrophils.

Author: t Hart, L A : Nibbering, P H : van den Barselaar, M T : van Dijk, H : van den Berg, A J : Labadie, R P

Citation: Int-J-Immunopharmacol. 1990; 12(4): 427-34

Abstract:
In traditional South-East Asian medicine the therapeutic value of the parenchymous leaf-gel of Aloe vera for inflammatory-based diseases is well-reputed. The aim of this study is to investigate at which level gel-constituents exert their activity. We show here that low -Mr constituents of an aqueous gel-extract inhibit the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by PMA-stimulated human PMN. The compounds inhibit the ROS-dependent extracellular effects of PMN such as lysis of red blood cells. The capacity of the PMN to phagocytose and kill micro-organisms at the intracellular level is not affected. The inhibitory activity of the low-Mr compounds is most pronounced in the PMA-induced ROS production, but is significantly antagonized by the Ca-ionophore A23187. It is shown that the inhibitory effect of the low-Mr compounds is the indirect result of the diminished availability of intracellular free Ca-ions.


108

Aloe vera and gibberellin. Anti-inflammatory activity in diabetes.

Author: Davis, R H : Maro, N P

Citation: J-Am-Podiatr-Med-Assoc. 1989 Jan; 79(1): 24-6

Abstract:
Aloe vera inhibits inflammation and adjuvant-induced arthritis. The authors' laboratory has shown that A. vera improves wound healing, which suggests that it does not act like an adrenal steroid. Diabetic animals were used in this study because of their poor wound healing and anti-inflammatory capabilities. The anti-inflammatory activity of A. vera and gibberellin was measured in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice by measuring the inhibition of polymorphonuclear leukocyte infiltration into a site of gelatin-induced inflammation over a dose range of 2 to 100 mg/kg. Both Aloe and gibberellin similarly inhibited inflammation in a dose-response manner. These data tend to suggest that gibberellin or a gibberellin-like substance is an active anti-inflammatory component in A. vera.


109

Anti-inflammatory activity of Aloe vera against a spectrum of irritants.

Author: Davis, R H : Leitner, M G : Russo, J M : Byrne, M E

Citation: J-Am-Podiatr-Med-Assoc. 1989 Jun; 79(6): 263-76

Abstract:
The authors have evaluated the spectrum of anti-inflammatory activity of A. vera in a number of models of inflammation in the hind paw of the experimental rat induced by kaolin, carrageenan, albumin, dextran, gelatin, and mustard. Croton oil was used in a topical model of inflammation to determine the oral activity and time-dependent dosing of A. vera. The authors found that A. vera was active in all models of inflammation. Of the various irritants tested, A. vera was especially active against gelatin-induced and kaolin-induced edema and, in contrast, had minimal activity when tested against dextran-induced edema. Oral activity of A. vera was demonstrated to be dependent on the presence of anthraquinones. The various irritant-induced edema models provided a broad spectrum of anti-inflammatory activity for A. vera.


110

Processed Aloe vera administered topically inhibits inflammation.

Author: Davis, R H : Rosenthal, K Y : Cesario, L R : Rouw, G A

Citation: J-Am-Podiatr-Med-Assoc. 1989 Aug; 79(8): 395-7

Abstract:
Aloe vera preparations were evaluated for topical anti-inflammatory activity using the croton oil-induced edema assay. The results show that small amounts of A. vera given topically will inhibit inflammation induced by a moderate amount of irritant. In general, the decolorized Aloe was more effective than the colorized Aloe (with anthraquinone). A 47.1% inhibition of inflammation was obtained by 5% decolorized irradiated Aloe. These results may be used as a baseline to assess the biologic activity of A. vera in the treatment of inflammation by podiatric physicians.


111

Wound healing. Oral and topical activity of Aloe vera.

Author: Davis, R H : Leitner, M G : Russo, J M : Byrne, M E

Citation: J-Am-Podiatr-Med-Assoc. 1989 Nov; 79(11): 559-62

Abstract:
The influence of Aloe vera, orally and topically, on wound healing was studied. Wounds were induced on both sides of the vertebral column of ICR mice using a biopsy punch. For the oral study, experimental animals received A. vera in their drinking water for 2 months, whereas the control animals received only water. In the topical study, experimental animals were given 25% A. vera in Eucerin cream topically. The control animals received cream only. A 62.5% reduction in wound diameter was noted in mice receiving 100 mg/kg/day oral A. vera and a 50.8% reduction was recorded in animals receiving topical 25% A. vera. These data suggest that A. vera is effective by both oral and topical routes of administration.



113

An anti-complementary polysaccharide with immunological adjuvant activity from the leaf parenchyma gel of Aloe vera.

Author: t'Hart, L A : van den Berg, A J : Kuis, L : van Dijk, H : Labadie, R P

Citation: Planta-Med. 1989 Dec; 55(6): 509-12

Abstract:
The aim of the study is to develop new substances with immunomodulatory activity. To this end, extracts from plants used in traditional medicine are used as starting material. This study deals with the mucilagenous leaf-gel of Aloe vera which is well reputed for its therapeutical effect on inflammatory-based disorders. The purification of an aqueous gel-extract guided by inhibition of complement activity in HPS is described. Using anion-exchange and gel permeation chromatography a highly active polysaccharide fraction was isolated, that is present in the gel in various chain lengths. The polysaccharides consist of several monosaccharides of which mannose is dominant. The inhibition is based on alternative pathway activation, resulting in consumption of C3. With respect to their biological activity the polysaccharides inhibit the opsonization of zymosan in HPS and display adjuvant activity on specific antibody production and the induction of delayed type hypersensitivity in mice.


114

Comparative evaluation of aloe vera in the management of burn wounds in guinea pigs.

Author: Rodriguez Bigas, M : Cruz, N I : Suarez, A

Citation: Plast-Reconstr-Surg. 1988 Mar; 81(3): 386-9

Abstract:
An experimental study was designed using Hartley guinea pigs, who received full-thickness burns covering 3 percent of their body surface area by direct contact with a hot plate. A total of 40 animals were equally divided among four modalities of closed burn wound management as follows: group I: silver sulfadiazine (Silvadine); group II: aloe vera gel extract (Carrington Dermal Wound Gel); group III: salicylic acid cream (aspirin); and group IV: plain gauze occlusive dressing only. The dressings were changed daily, and the size and appearance of each burn wound were recorded until complete healing. On the sixth postburn day, quantitative burn wound cultures were made. The average time to complete healing in the control group was 50 days, and the only significant difference was found in the aloe vera-treated animals, which healed on an average of 30 days (p less than 0.02). Wound bacterial counts were effectively decreased by silver sulfadiazine (p = 0.015) and by aloe vera extract (p = 0.015). From our data it appears that aloe gel extracts permit a faster healing of burn wounds.


115

Aloe vera gel hindered wound healing of experimental second-degree burns: a quantitative controlled study.

Author: Kaufman, T : Kalderon, N : Ullmann, Y : Berger, J

Citation: J-Burn-Care-Rehabil. 1988 Mar-Apr; 9(2): 156-9

Abstract:
In the present study, Aloe vera gel (AVG) was applied to experimental second-degree burns in guinea pigs, and its effects on epithelialization, wound contraction, newly formed granulation tissue, and regeneration of hair follicles was compared with that effected by 1% silver sulfadiazine cream (AgSD). Epithelialization (%mean +/- SEM) on postburn day 8, 16, and 24 of the AVG-treated wounds was 38.72% +/- 2.71%, 60.34% +/- 3.28%, and 92.46% +/- 2.26%, respectively, while that of the AgSD-treated burns was 53.35% +/- 2.65%, 94.84% +/- 2.65%, and 100%, respectively (P less than .001). Contraction of the AVG-wounds was significantly higher than that of the AgSD-treated burns during 24 days of the study (P less than .001). The thickness of the newly formed granulation tissue was higher in the AVG-treated wounds (P less than .001), while the hair follicles count was significantly lower (P less than .001) compared with the AgSD-treated burns. It is concluded that this preparation of Aloe vera gel hindered the healing process of the present burn wound model when compared with 1% silver sulfadiazine cream.


116

Aloe vera.

Author: Klein, A D : Penneys, N S

Citation: J-Am-Acad-Dermatol. 1988 Apr; 18(4 Pt 1): 714-20

Abstract:
We review the scientific literature regarding the aloe vera plant and its products. Aloe vera is known to contain several pharmacologically active ingredients, including a carboxypeptidase that inactivates bradykinin in vitro, salicylates, and a substance(s) that inhibits thromboxane formation in vivo. Scientific studies exist that support an antibacterial and antifungal effect for substance(s) in aloe vera. Studies and case reports provide support for the use of aloe vera in the treatment of radiation ulcers and stasis ulcers in man and burn and frostbite injuries in animals. The evidence for a potential beneficial effect associated with the use of aloe vera is sufficient to warrant the design and implementation of well-controlled clinical trials.


117

Two functionally and chemically distinct immunomodulatory compounds in the gel of Aloe vera.

Author: Hart, L A : van Enckevort, P H : van Dijk, H : Zaat, R : de Silva, K T : Labadie, R P

Citation: J-Ethnopharmacol. 1988 May-Jun; 23(1): 61-71

Abstract:
An aqueous extract of Aloe vera gel was analyzed guided by modulatory activity with regard to the in vitro activation of human complement and of human polymorphnuclear leucocytes (PMN). Upon ultrafiltration a high (h-Mr) and a low (l-Mr) molecular mass fraction were obtained. Pre-incubation of human pooled serum with the h-Mr fraction resulted in a depletion of classical and alternative pathway complement activity. In contrast, only the l-Mr fraction could inhibit the production of free oxygen radicals by activated PMNs. The latter activity cannot be attributed to non-specific effects like toxicity, interference with stimulant binding or scavenger activity.



122

Experimental and clinical observations on frostbite.

Author: Heggers, J P : Robson, M C : Manavalen, K : Weingarten, M D : Carethers, J M : Boertman, J A : Smith, D J : Sachs, R J

Citation: Ann-Emerg-Med. 1987 Sep; 16(9): 1056-62

Abstract:
Experimental ischemia by the classic frostbite rabbit ear model clearly defined the role of thromboxane as a mediator of progressive dermal ischemia in frostbite injuries. The therapeutic groups consisted of the antiprostanoids, methylprednisolone, and aspirin combined with anti-thromboxane agents Aloe vera and methimazole, while the control group received no therapy. Survival was measured by planimetry for all groups. No tissue survival was evident in the frostbite control group. Methimazole treatment allowed 34.3% survival, Aloe vera 28.2% survival, aspirin 22.5% survival, and methylprednisolone 17.5% survival. The data compare the results of a modified frostbite protocol using ibuprofen with therapeutic modalities used by other clinical services. Of 154 patients treated for frostbite from 1982 to 1985, 56 were treated with our frostbite protocol; 98 were treated with other modalities. Of the 56 protocol patients, 18 suffered 1st degree frostbite, 25, 2nd degree frostbite, and 13, 3rd degree frostbite. For all degrees of frostbite, 67.9% healed without tissue loss, 25.0% healed with partial tissue loss, and 7% required amputation (P less than .001). Of the patients not on protocol, 11 suffered 1st degree frostbite, 51, 2nd degree frostbite, and 36, 3rd degree frostbite. Of these, 32.7% healed without tissue loss, 34.6% healed with tissue loss, and 32.7% required amputation. The morbidity of progressive dermal ischemia in frostbite may be decreased by the therapeutic use of inhibitors of the arachidonic acid cascade.