The adverse impact of Aloe Vera gel extract and Aloe Vera-fortified yogurt on hepatic and renal functions

Abstract

Aloe Vera gel is used to ameliorate medical complications such as inflammation, wounds, and diabetes. It is utilized as a dairy products supplement to potentiate its nutritive value. However, Aloe Vera was reported as a potential irritant for hepatic and renal tissues. In this study, we investigated the impact of different concentrations of Aloe Vera gel extract alone or as a supplement to yogurt on hepatic and renal functions. Thirty-six male albino rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6). The groups received either oral administration of distilled water (DW/Control), Aloe Vera gel 10% in DW (AV10), Aloe Vera gel 20% (AV20), plain yogurt (Y), yogurt supplemented with 10% Aloe Vera gel extract (Y+AV10), or yogurt supplemented with 20% Aloe Vera gel extract (Y+AV20). Treatment was carried out daily for one week. Renal and hepatic biochemical parameters were assessed. ALT was significantly increased in the AV20 group compared to the control and AV10 groups. AST level was significantly high in Y+AV20 compared to Y+AV10, Y, and DW groups. No changes were observed in creatinine and urea. Hepatic micrographs showed vacuolar degeneration of hepatocytes in the AV20 group, while the Y+AV20 group showed necrosis of parenchyma and individualization of hepatocytes. No significant tissue changes were observed in the kidney. It is concluded that Aloe Vera gel extract, especially with higher concentrations, is irritant to the liver of rats with no prominent impact on the kidney. This effect could be ameliorated by yogurt or using AV at lower concentrations.