ABSTRACT
Background: The prevalence of thrombotic diseases is rising globally. Presently, stroke and ischemic heart disease account for 25% of all deaths. Use of anti-thrombotic drugs have proven effective in prevention of these ailments but might not be affordable especially in developing countries. They are also associated with undesirable side effects. This study sought to determine the anti-thrombotic effect of ginger since it is affordable, accessible and is widely used as a food enhancer and a medicinal herb.Methods: The current study employed an in-vivo experimental study design. Three groups Sprague dawley rats (N=5) were given different doses of methanolic extract of ginger for 30 days. Two other groups (N=5) which served as controls received 5% dimethyl sulfoxide and aspirin for the same duration. Measurement of bleeding time, platelet count, prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time and thrombin time was done to assess the anti-thrombotic property.Results: There was a statistically significant difference in bleeding time (P=0.03) across the groups investigated. There was however no significant difference across the groups in platelet count, prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time and thrombin time (P=˃0.05).Conclusion: This study demonstrates that methanolic extract of ginger possesses an anti-thrombotic property probably through inhibition of platelet function. Regular consumption of ginger may therefore confer protection against thrombotic diseases.