Cytotoxicity test of aloe vera extract (Aloe barbadensis Mill.) against gingival fibroblast cells as an alternative to curettage irrigation

Several studies have proven the antibacterial benefits of aloe vera extract which can be used as an alternative ingredient for curettage irrigation. The active components of aloe vera which play a role in antibacterial activity come from the content of anthraquinones, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, aloin, acemanan, glucomannan, amino acids, and tannins. However, a cytotoxicity test for this material has not been carried out so the safety of using this material cannot be confirmed. Cytotoxicity test of aloe vera extract was carried out at concentrations of 10.5%, 11.5%, 12.5%, 13.5%, and 14.5% against human gingival fibroblast cells. The research was a laboratory experimental study with a post-test-only control group design using 2 control groups and 5 treatment groups (aloe vera extract with concentrations of 10.5%, 11.5%, 12.5%, 13.5%, and 14.5%). The cytotoxicity test carried out was the MTT assay with results in the form of optical density values obtained from ELISA reader readings. The results of the study showed that aloe vera extract with concentrations of 10.5%, 11.5%, 12.5%, 13.5%, and 14.5% had a slightly toxic effect on human gingival fibroblast cells. because living cells are in the range of 60 – 90%. Research shows that the higher the extract concentration, the lower the average value of optical density (OD) and cell viability. Aloe vera extract with concentrations of 10.5%, 11.5%, 12.5%, 13.5%, and 14.5% is slightly toxic to human gingival fibroblast cells.