Arain Aq, Hussain M, Muneer A, Chiragh S.
Effect of chloroform extract of aloe vera gel on sodium and water retention in rats.
Biomedica Jan ;32(2):88-92.

Background and Objective: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are popular to treat acute and chronic inflammatory conditions. These drugs cause salt and fluid retention among other side effects. Aloe vera is a well – known medicinal plant that reduces inflammation but its effect on salt and fluid retention has not been studied. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of chloroform extract of Aloe vera leaf – gel on sodium and water retention in rats. Methods: A randomized controlled experimental study was conducted at Post Graduate Medical Institute, Lahore in which twelve adult healthy male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into two groups each containing six rats. First group served as a control and was given 0.5 ml distilled water while second experimental group was given chloroform extract of Aloe vera gel, 200 mg/kg dissolved in 0.5 ml distilled water orally by one ml syringe as a single morning dose for a period of 28 days. Body weight, urine sodium concentration, blood haematocrit and serum sodium and potassium concentrations were measured on Day 0, 14 and 28. Results: It was found that Aloe vera extract did not cause significant change in body weight and urine sodium concentration, caused a slight fall in haematocrit, rise in serum sodium concentration within normal range and no change in serum potassium concentration. Conclusion: The present study shows that Aloe vera extract does not cause sodium and water retention when given orally in 200 mg/kg dose, but needs evaluation by using gradually increasing doses.

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