Antihyperglycemic and Histological Effect of Aloe vera on Alloxan-Induced Diabetes in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia and is associated with various complications if not properly managed. Aloe vera, a medicinal plant with diverse pharmacological properties, has shown promise as a potential therapeutic intervention for diabetes. This study aimed to investigate the antihyperglycemic and histological effects of Aloe vera in an alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar rat model. Method: Forty-eight Wistar rats were divided into six groups and treated with different regimens of Aloe vera and metformin, a standard antidiabetic drug. The effects of the treatments on blood glucose levels and histology of the pancreas, liver, and kidney were evaluated. Result: The results of the study revealed that alloxan injection induced hyperglycemia and pathological changes in the pancreas, liver and kidney of Wistar rats. The treatment with 100mg/kg, 200mg/kg and 400mg/kg of Aloe vera significantly reduced blood glucose levels in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, Aloe vera administration preserved the histological integrity of the pancreas, liver, and kidney in diabetic rats. This preservation of organ histology can be attributed to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and tissue-protective properties of Aloe vera. Conclusion: Aloe vera demonstrated antihyperglycemic effects and preserved organ histology in an alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar rat model. The bioactive compounds present in Aloe vera are believed to contribute to these effects. Aloe vera holds potential as an alternative or adjunctive therapy for diabetes management, but its clinical efficacy and safety need to be further explored.