Arinze Favour Anyiam
1* 
, Emmanuel Anyachukwu Irondi
2 , Ejeatuluchukwu Obi
3 , Onyinye Cecilia Arinze-Anyiam
1 , Pius Omoruyi Omosigho
4 , Musa Abidemi Muhibi
4 , Ayodele Olusola Ilesanmi
5 , Okelola Odunayo Oluwatimilehin
5, Blessing Okezie
6 1 Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Basic Medical and Health Sciences, Thomas Adewumi University, Oko, P. M. B. 1030, Kwara State, Nigeria
2 Department of Medical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, Kwara State University, Malete, P.M. B. 1530, Kwara State, Nigeria
3 Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria
4 Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Edo State University, Uzairue, Edo State, Nigeria
5 Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, Kwara State University, Malete, P.M. B. 1530, Kwara State, Nigeria
6 Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria
Abstract
Background: It has been known for centuries that plants and plant-derived chemicals are useful in treating diseases, with Aloe vera being one of the biologically active plants. A significant role is played by the C-reactive protein (CRP) in many inflammatory conditions, while leukocytes play an integral role in the response of the immune system to infectious diseases.
Objectives: This study explored the potential anti-inflammatory effects of Aloe vera methanolic extract on the total white blood cell (TWBC) count and CRP levels in Wistar rats received formalin.
Methods: A total of 25 Wistar rats were divided into five groups (A to E), with group A serving as the control and the other groups receiving formalin to induce inflammation, followed by increasing doses of Aloe vera extract. The CRP level was measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit, and the TWBC count was determined using a Sysmex haematology autoanalyzer.
Results: Research findings showed that 200 mg of Aloe vera methanolic extract effectively reduced the CRP level (0.056±0.0027) (P=0.04), while 600 mg of the extract significantly increased the TWBC count (13.920±4.757) (P=0.03).
Conclusion: These findings suggest that Aloe vera extract may be an effective natural supplement for improving the immune system function and reducing inflammation in the body. However, further research is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms for these effects and to determine the optimal doses and potential side effects.