In Vivo Coagulation Effects of Thymus vulgaris Leaves Extract in Mice

Abstract

Background: In addition to current therapies, herbal medicine is still used as an effective method for the treatment of some diseases such as bleeding disorders. Thymus vulgaris has been employed as traditional remedy in the treatment of bleeding disorders, although its clinical effects have not been investigated yet. Accordingly, this study evaluated the effects of the T. vulgaris extract on coagulation parameters, including bleeding time (BT), clotting time (CT), prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and the number of platelets (PLT). Methods: Forty male mice were randomly divided into 5 groups (n=8). The treated groups were administered with 100, 200, or 300 mg/kg/daily of the hydroalcoholic extract, as well as negative and positive control groups. Blood samples were taken from animals on the 13th and 14th day after treatment, and then coagulation indices were determined finally. Results: The results demonstrated a significant reduction in the BT and CT tests while a significant increase in PT, aPTT, and platelet numbers. Phenolic and flavonoid compounds in the hydro-alcoholic extract of T. vulgaris are the most affecting compounds confirmed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and phytochemical experiments. Conclusion: In general, the results indicated the coagulation effect of the T. vulgaris extract through primary homeostasis and a common pathway of secondary hemostasis.