Healing Effect of Hawthorn (Crataegus pontica C. Koch) Leaf Extract in Dermal Toxicity Induced by T-2 Toxin in Rabbit

Abstract

Background: T-2 toxin is a mycotoxin, exposure to which causes dermal and systemic toxicity. Crataegus pontica (a member of the Rosaceous family) is a small tree with caduceus foliage that is widely distributed throughout the western and central areas of Iran. Objectives: This study was performed to examine the healing effects of creams prepared using Crataegus pontica leaf extract on dermal toxicity induced by T-2 toxin. Methods: Iranian rabbits were used for this study. The back left flanks of the animals were shaved and to induce toxicity, a solution of 100 µg/12 µl of T-2 toxin in ethanol was applied to the skin for 2 successive days. Creams were prepared using Crataegus pontica leaf extract in a eucerin base at concentrations of 5%, 10%, and 15% (w/w). Beginning on the third day, the creams were applied to the skin lesions twice per day until complete healing occurred. The positive control group received the toxin only without treatment and the negative control group received solvent (ethanol) only. Healing was defined as a decreased wound margin, as well as treatment of the erythema and blisters. Results: Our findings indicated that wound healing occurred 15, 15, 12, 10, and 10 days after initial wounding in the negative control, eucerin, 5%, 10%, and 15% C. pontica extract groups, respectively. The most effective treatments were obtained with the creams containing 10% and 15% C. pontica extract. Histological findings confirmed wound reduction in the affected areas. Conclusions: The results obtained in this study indicate that C. pontica extract has a healing effect on dermal toxicity caused by T-2 toxin and is effective for its treatment.