Determination of compounds with laxative action in aloe latex and aloe vera-based products—Chemometric classification of aloe vera plants (Aloe barbadensis Miller) under different conditions

Background

The bioactive compounds of latex in aloe vera are associated with several of its medicinal properties. Aloe emodin, aloins A and B, which are present in aloe latex, are known for their laxative action.

Results

The developed HPLC method for the determination of compounds with purgative effect was performed with a C18 column, and the total analysis time was 22 min. Each leaf from the plants was studied separately for its content in aloins. It was observed that, in contrast with field cultivation plants, the concentrations of aloins in potted plants follow a specific pattern based on the position of the leaves. It was also observed that climatic and environmental conditions have a significant impact on the concentrations of aloins. Principal Component Analysis was performed to evaluate correlations among measurements. The model was able to separate the aloe plants based on their seasonal variation and growing conditions. Finally, it was observed that, in only two out of thirteen products, aloins were present, with the total content exceeding the maximum levels set by EU legislation.

Conclusion

The present work provides useful information for the aloins variation among leaves in different positions and plants under various conditions.