Wound healing properties of stem bark extract of Tabebuia rosea

Abstract

The wound healing properties of the methanol stem bark extract of Tabebuia rosea (Bignoniaceae) were evaluated in rats using the excision wound model. Extraction of the powdered plant material by continuous extraction in a soxhlet afforded 5.73% w/w of the Tabebuia methanol extract (TME). Phytochemical analysis and acute toxicity LD₅₀  tests were also performed. The results showed that TME and formulation of the extract in petroleum jelly (PE) significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the wound diameter as well as epithelialisation time of the excised wound. The extract (TME) and the formulations (PE) produced 100% healing on the 14^th day post excision which is comparable to the healing exhibited by a standard agent, Cicatrin powder. Phytochemical analysis of the extract indicated the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, glycosides, proteins, steroids, tannins and terpenoids. The  acute toxicity test indicated an LD₅₀ of 2154 mg/kg.

Keywords: Tabebuia rosea, wound healing, excision, rats

Journal of Pharmaceutical and Allied Sciences, Vol. 7 No.4 (2010)