This investigation examined the effect of supplementation with Biostimine, 
extract from Aloe arborescens Mill. leaves, on the levels of 
pro-oxidant-antioxidant equilibrium markers and anti- and proinflammatory 
cytokines in rowers subjected to exhaustive exercise. This double-blind study 
included 18 members of the Polish Rowing Team. Subjects were randomly assigned 
to the supplemented group (n = 9), which received one ampoule of Biostimine once 
daily for 4 weeks, or to the placebo group (n = 9). Subjects performed a 
2,000-meter-maximum test on a rowing ergometer at the beginning and end of the 
preparatory camp. Blood samples were obtained from the antecubital vein before 
each exercise test, 1 min after completing the test and after a 24-hr recovery 
period. Superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activity as well as the 
concentration of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were assessed 
in erythrocytes. In addition, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and creatine 
kinase activity were measured in plasma samples, and cytokine (IL-6, IL-10) 
concentrations were determined in the serum. Before and after Biostimine 
supplementation, exercise significantly increased the values of SOD, IL-6, 
IL-10, and TBARS in both groups. However, postexercise and recovery levels of 
TBARS were significantly lower in athletes receiving Biostimine than in 
controls. After supplementation, TAC was the only variable with the level being 
significantly higher in the supplemented group than in the placebo group. 
Consequently, we can conclude that Biostimine supplementation reduces the 
postexercise level of TBARS by increasing the antioxidant activity of plasma but 
has no effect on inflammatory markers.