Extracts of Selected Plants and Fruits Profoundly Modulate <i>In Vitro</i> Coagulation Activity

Abstract

Background: Plant products treat many diseases and are an important resource for pharmaceutical companies developing new medicines. Hemostasis maintains blood in the fluid state and prevents its loss from damaged blood vessels. Plants have been reported to be sources of anticoagulant and antithrombotic substances and are employed in the management of coagulation disorders. Aim: This study investigates the effects of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of bitter leaves, mango leaves, drumstick leaves, pineapples and tomatoes on in vitro coagulation activity. Methods: Aqueous and ethanolic extracts of leaves of Mangifera indica, Moringa oleifera, Vernonia amygdalina, and fruits of Ananas comosus and Solanum lycopersicum were prepared using the cold maceration method and lyophilized. The freeze-dried extracts were prepared into four concentrations. Platelet-poor plasma was obtained from ten healthy volunteers. Prothrombin Time (PT) and activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT) were determined by visual detection of clot formation. The mean and standard deviation were determined and compared with the controls. Results: PT values for females were higher for aqueous and ethanolic extracts except for A. comosus. Female aPTT values were reduced compared to males except for V. amygdalina. There were no changes in PT and aPTT across the concentration gradient. PT control values significantly differ, however, there were no significant differences in aPTT control values between genders. This study revealed that PT and aPTT values differ significantly between genders. Conclusion: Mangifera indica and M. oleifera have procoagulant activity, A. comosus has anticoagulant activity, while V. amygdalina does not affect coagulation time.