The effect of a standardized capsule of Aloe vera gel on the quality of life in patients with systolic heart failure: A randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled clinical trial

Abstract

AbstractThis trial was designed to evaluate the effect of a standardized capsule of Aloe vera gel (AVG) on the quality of life (QOL) in patients with systolic heart failure (HF). Forty‐two patients were randomly divided into two groups to receive either AVG 150 mg or harmonized placebo capsules twice a day for 8 weeks. The patients were evaluated before and after the intervention using the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ), New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class, six‐minute walk test (6MWT), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and STOP‐BANG questionnaires. Post‐intervention, AVG group indicated a significant reduction in the total score of MLHFQ (p < 0.001). The changes in MLHFQ and NYHA class were statistically significant after taking medication (p < 0.001 and p = 0.004, respectively). The change of 6MWT in the AVG group was more advanced; however, it was not statistically significant (p = 0.353). Moreover, in the AVG group, the severity of insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea decreased (p < 0.001, p = 0.01 respectively) and the sleep quality improved as well (p < 0.001). There were significantly fewer adverse events reported in the AVG group (p = 0.047). Therefore, AVG combined with standard medical therapy could provide more clinical benefits for patients with systolic HF.