Development And In Vivo Evaluation Of A Herbal-Based Topical Formulation For Enhanced Wound Healing In A Burn Model
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64252/tt889p29Keywords:
Burn wound model, wound healing activity, partial-thickness burns, polyherbal formulation, skin regeneration, anti-inflammatory effect, wound contraction, in vivo study.Abstract
Background:
Wound healing is an essential component of clinical care, especially for burn injuries, as recovery can be delayed by prolonged inflammation and infection. Topical formulations based on herbal ingredients present a promising alternative, given their diverse therapeutic benefits and limited adverse effects. The aim of this study was to create and assess a polyherbal cream that includes glycyrrhizin, Aloe vera, and bay leaf extracts for its potential to heal wounds in a partial-thickness burn model.
Methods:
Two topical cream formulations (1% and 2.5%) were developed using standard emulsification methods. The formulations underwent physicochemical evaluations, which included tests for pH, viscosity, spreadability, washability, stability, and skin irritation. Using a standardized burn wound model, the in vivo wound healing activity was evaluated in Wistar rats. Animals were categorized into five groups (n=6): negative control, cream base (positive control), standard (2.5% silver sulfadiazine), and test groups receiving treatment with 1% and 2.5% polyherbal cream. Days 0, 7, 14, and 21 were used to measure the rates of contraction of te wound.. Acute dermal irritation was assessed as well.
Results:
Both formulations exhibited acceptable physicochemical properties, with no indications of phase separation or irritation. By day 21, the wound contraction rate for the 2.5% polyherbal cream was significantly improved (77.36 ± 0.04%) in comparison to the standard medication (68.00 ± 0.18%) and other control groups. The enhanced epithelialization and tissue regeneration observed in the test groups were supported by histological analysis. The acute irritation study revealed no adverse reactions.
Conclusion:
The polyherbal cream at a concentration of 2.5% showed considerable wound healing effects in rats with burn injuries. This is probably attributable to the combined anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects of glycyrrhizin, Aloe vera, and bay leaf extracts. The results indicate that the polyherbal cream could serve as a safe and effective topical treatment for managing burn wounds.
