In Vivo Healing Potential of Prunus africana in Excision and Incision Wound Models

Introduction: Prunus africana (PA) bark has traditionally been used for treatment of wounds. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities are well described in scientific literatures. Proceeding with these findings, it is the purpose of the proposed study to assess the wound healing its potential in Wistar rats. Methods: chloroform (PACE) and hydroethanolic (PAHE) extract were prepared as 5 and % w/w gel. These formulations were subjected to acute dermal toxicity test based on OECD guideline 402 and wound healing activity were also determined using excision and incision wound models. The following parameters were measured: wound contraction rate, epithelialization period, tensile strength, , the total content of protein, hexosamine and hydroxyproline content. The histopathological changes in the granulation tissue were also measured. Results: The current study on excision wound model showed that treatment demonstrated a significant improvement in wound contraction and the protein, hexosamine and hydroxyproline levels in both 5 percent and 10 % w/w gels of PAHE and PACE than control group (p < 0.01; p < 0.001). A major increase in the tensile strength was recorded with the incision model (p < 0.01; p < 0.001). Histology revealed that there was larger collagen deposition and decreased macrophage infiltration, less edema, and more fibroblasts in the treatment groups. Conclusion: The results establish the fact that PACE and PAHE extracts share good wound healing activity. Keywords: Prunus africana, Excision wound model, Incision wound model, Wound healing.