Histological evaluation of wound healing potential of aqueous extracts of <i>Tamarindus indica</i> seed extract in Wistar rats.

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Tamarindus indica has been used as a traditional medicine for various purposes. Wound healing is a complex process that involves a series of immunological and biological events. This study aimed to evaluate the wound healing potential of Tamarindus indica seed extract in Wistar rats.

METHODOLOGY: The study involved creating a 1.5cm full thickness wound on the dorsal region of 16 healthy Wistar rats. After the excision of the wound, the animals were grouped into four (4) groups (A, B, C and D) of four animals per group. Untreated, Silver Sulphadiazine, 1% Tamarindus indica seed extract and 2% Tamarindus indica seed extract were respectively applied to group (A, B, C and D) for the period of 13 days.  And the histological analysis of the wound area was performed on the 14th day.

RESULTS: The results showed that 2% of aqueous Tamarindus indica seed extract   significantly improved wound healing rates and was better in term of efficacy when compared to the standard drug (Silver Sulphadiazine). It also enhanced the cellular proliferation, blood vessel formation, epidermal regeneration, granulation tissue formation, and collagen formation.

CONCLUSION: The study revealed that Tamarindus indica seed extract had wound healing potential, and that the effect was dose dependent.