Evaluation of the antithrombotic effects of Crataegus monogyna and Crataegus davisii in the carrageenan-induced tail thrombosis model

Context: Crataegus species are widely used as herbal medicines for preventing cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). However, there are no studies on the effects of Crataegus monogyna Jacq. (Rosaceae) and C. davisii Browicz on thrombosis, which is an important mechanism in CVDs. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the antithrombotic effects of ethanol extracts of Crataegus monogyna (CMEx) and C. davisii (CDEx) leaves by using the carrageenaninduced tail thrombosis model. Materials and methods: The hind paw of each mouse was injected with 1% Type I carrageenan to induce thrombosis. CMEx was tested at the doses of 100, 200, and 300 mg/kg and CDEx at the dose of 50, 100, 200, and 300 mg/kg in comparison with heparin. The lengths of tail thrombosis were measured at the 24, 48, and 72 h. Results: Does of 200 and 300 mg/kg CMEx showed significant effects (p<0.01; p<0.001) at 24 h when compared with the control group. The antithrombotic activity of 200 and 300 mg/kg CMEx showed a decrease at 48 and 72 h but the activity of 300 mg/kg dose of CMEx was still significant (p<0.01). The activities of 50 and 100 mg/kg doses of CDEx were significant (p<0.001; p<0.01) between 24 and 72 h whereas 200 and 300 mg/kg CDEx did not show any significance. Discussion and conclusions: CMEx and CDEx significantly inhibited the carrageenan-induced mouse tail thrombosis. Based on these results, it was concluded that CDEx and CMEx may potentially be used as therapeutic agents or complementary treatments against thrombosis.