Harnessing the Potential of Litchi Fruit Pericarp for Wound Mitigation in Wistar Albino Rats

Abstract

Background: The use of medicinal plants is vital in the treatment of several ailments. Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) fruit pericarp is the main by-product of litchi processing. Litchi fruit pericarp contains a significant amount of polyphenolic compounds, which have been found to have a broad variety of biological activities. Methods: Litchi pericarp was produced in 10% (w/w) hydrogel and tested for wound healing activities in Wistar rats using an excision wound model. Wound healing activity was evaluated using wound-healing rate, inflammatory cytokine levels, oxidative stress, collagen hydroxyproline and hexosamine concentration, and macroscopic and histological evidence. Results: The results show that pericarp extract has significant wound healing potential, which is indicated by better wound closure, tissue regeneration, and histological characteristics. Litchi pericarp hydrogel boosted the skin's hydroxyproline content, antioxidant capacity, wound contraction, and anti-inflammatory potential by regulating the production of the cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. This supports the effectiveness of litchi pericarp's wound-healing qualities. Conclusion: Litchi pericarp hydrogel promoted wound recovery in rats, encouraging its application in wound alleviation.