Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis) and Honey (Apis mellifera) as Natural Fixatives for Tissue Fixation in Histopathology

Abstract

This study explores the potential of Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) and honey for use in tissue fixation for histopathology which has led researchers to explore safer, natural practices in tissue preservation. Aloe vera and honey are known for their preservative and antimicrobial properties, which may help maintain tissue structure and quality. This research examined how effective different ratios of Aloe vera and honey mixtures are as fixatives. Liver tissue from a pig was treated with various concentrations of these mixtures, and the resulting tissue quality was compared to samples preserved in 10% formalin. Histological factors like fixation quality, processing quality, tissue block integrity, sectioning quality, staining quality, and overall morphology were evaluated. Aloe vera and honey combinations showed preservation outcomes similar to formalin. Three formulations were tested: Treatment 1 (50% Aloe vera, 50% honey), Treatment 2 (75% Aloe vera, 25% honey), and Treatment 3 (25% Aloe vera, 75% honey). Treatment 3 (25% Aloe vera, 75% honey) showed fixation and processing quality comparable to formalin, with smoothest sectioning, suggesting honey aids cutting. Staining was consistent across all treatments. Treatment 3 also provided the most favorable tissue morphology, demonstrating its potential for preserving fine tissue details. These results support Aloe vera and honey mixtures as effective, less toxic fixatives in histopathology, promoting safer laboratory conditions and reduced environmental impact. Further studies are encouraged to confirm these results and assess their long-term effectiveness in tissue preservation.