We are examining the role of the aloe vera leaf extract, Acemannan in improving the quality of life and reducing the frequency of painful crises and complications of sickle cell disease patients. In addition, we also aim to establish it as an adjunct in the management of sickle cell disease.

We hoped to collaborate with a centre, Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria (SCFN).

The goal of this project in SCFN is to recruit 100 patients, from 1 year to 12 years, with sickle cell disease and split them into two groups. While one group receives both the routine drugs (folic acid and palludrine), the other group receives both routine drugs and acemannan.

The research activities started on the 25th day of April 2022. So far, we have recruited 105 participants for the study (52 participants in the routine group and 53 participants in the Acemannan group).

The total budget for the research is $14,271 (that $2,378 to be paid monthly), but this does not include the volunteer stipends and stipends/travel expenses for the Brain and Body Foundation research personnel.