<em>In vitro</em> inhibitory effect of <em>Aloe vera</em> (L.) Burm. f. leaf extracts on the activity of some enzymes and antioxidant activity

Abstract

<em>Aloe vera</em> (L.) Burm. f. possess succulent leaves which gel or whole extracts are commercially used in cosmetic industry as well as a food supplement for its multiple health benefits. Research for medicines based on the inhibition mechanism of enzymes is a promising topic. In this study, four different enzymes were chosen: Elastase, neuraminidase, ɑ-amylase, and lipase. In addition, the antioxidant activities of leaf skin and gel extracts of <em>A</em>. <em>vera</em> were evaluated using reducing power, DMPD, and NO radical scavenging activities. <em>A. vera</em> leaves were collected from the plant which is cultivated in the greenhouse of Istanbul University, Alfred Heilbronn Botanical Garden. The leaf gel and skin were homogenized in phosphate buffered saline.Among the four enzymes, <em>A. vera</em> leaf gel and skin extracts showed the best inhibition of elastase and ɑ-amylase and moderated inhibitory activity for neuraminidase and lipase. <em>A. vera</em> leaf gel and skin extracts showed the best activity of DMPD radical scavenger and moderate NO scavenging activity and reducing power.The results suggested that <em>A. vera</em> extracts may provide a natural source of anti-elastase, antilipase and ɑ-amylase and neuraminidase inhibitory activities and that they are a natural source of antioxidant.