Antiplatelet effects of Angelica dahurica root extract without gastric lesion formation in rats

Background: Platelet aggregation plays a crucial role in hemostasis; however, excessive platelet activation can lead to thrombus formation, contributing to cardiovascular diseases. While aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid [ASA]) is commonly used as an antiplatelet agent, its longterm use is associated with gastrointestinal side effects. Angelica dahurica (AD), a traditional herbal remedy, has shown in vitro antiplatelet activity and cyclooxygenase enzyme inhibition. However, its in vivo effects on platelet aggregation and gastric safety remain unclear. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate whether Angelica dahurica root extract (ADE) could inhibit platelet aggregation and prevent aspirin-induced gastric lesions. Materials and Methods: AD was extracted using 50% ethanol. Rats were orally administered ADE at doses of 25, 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, including groups receiving a combination of ADE and aspirin (80 mg/ kg) for seven consecutive days. Blood was collected for platelet-rich plasma preparation, and platelet aggregation was induced by adenosine diphosphate (ADP). Gastric tissues were examined macroscopically and histopathologically. Results: ADE at 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg significantly inhibited ADP-induced platelet aggregation. The combination of ADE (200 mg/kg) and aspirin (80 mg/kg) further enhanced inhibition compared to aspirin alone. ADE treatment did not produce any detectable macroscopic or histopathological damage of the gastric tissue in rats. Conclusion: ADE demonstrated inhibitory effects on platelet aggregation, while showing no evidence of gastric lesions in either control rats or those treated with aspirin. These findings suggest that ADE may offer potential as a complementary antiplatelet agent with reduced risk of gastrointestinal side effects commonly associated with aspirin.