Chemical composition and wound healing activity of methanolic leaf extract of Hydrolea zeylanica Vahl. by in vivo excision and incision models

Abstract

Background: Hydrolea zeylanica L. leaves are used traditionally for burns, wounds, antiseptic, and callus ulcers. Objective: The objective of the study was to discuss chemical composition and to evaluate the wound healing property of H. zeylanica L. methanol extract (HZLME) on rats using excision and incision wound models. Materials and Methods: Wistar albino rats (150-200 g) were divided into four groups (n = 6). Group I negative control (Water-soluble ointment base), Group II standard (povidone iodine [5% w/w] ointment), Group III Test I - HZLME ointment (5% w/w), and Groups IV Test II - H. zeylanica leaf aqueous extract ointment (5% w/w) were applied topically. In incision wound models, the treatment was given for 10 days from the day of wound; skin breaking strength was estimated in incision wound model. In excision wound model, treatment continued until wound is completely healed. Rate of wound contraction and period of epithelization was evaluated thereafter. The data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, followed by Dunnett’s test. Results: Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry chromatogram analysis of the HZLME showed several peaks indicating the presence of various phytochemical constituents. HZLME increased the rate of wound contraction, decreased the period of epithelization and increased skin breaking strength. Conclusion: The use of H. zeylanica in various skin diseases has been proved by this work, as it showed a wound healing potential.