Evaluation of Wound Healing Activity of Combretum Platypterum (combretaceae) Oil.

Medicinal plants, used since ancient times across cultures, play a crucial role in maintaining individual and community health. Traditional medicine, relying on therapeutic herbs, is globally practiced and holds economic significance, particularly in developing nations. The Combretaceae family, with over 530 species, includes genera like Lumnitzera, Laguncularia, and Conocarpus flourishing in mangrove ecosystems. Within Combretum, approximately 24 species, like C. hartmannianum, are utilized in traditional medicine for treating various conditions due to their bioactive components' unique physiological actions.
This study's objectives encompass evaluating the physiochemical properties of Combretum platypterum oil, identifying isolated compounds with wound healing potential in the plant, and assessing the wound healing activities of the extracted oil. Overall, the study aims to investigate both the physiochemical characteristics of the oil and its efficacy in promoting wound healing.
Fresh leaves of Combretum platypterum were collected, dried, and then subjected to oil extraction using N-hexane. Physiochemical properties such as refractive index, pH, and melting point of the extracted oil were analyzed. Further analysis involved determining the acid value and saponin content. The study also conducted a comprehensive phytochemical screening, including tests for anthraquinones, sterols, alkaloids, amino acids, proteins, tannins, and flavonoids. The research extended to evaluating wound healing activities of the oil using an excision wound model on rats, with different ointment formulations and controls. Statistical analysis and GC-FID analysis were employed to interpret the results.
This research reveals that Combretum platypterum, or Wide-Winged Bushwillow, possesses medicinal properties, including antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Phytochemical screening confirms the presence of flavonoids, saponin, alkaloids, and sterols, contributing to wound healing through antioxidant and antimicrobial actions. The extracted oil, with a basic pH and saponification value, suggests potential healing properties. In a rat wound model, ointments containing Combretum platypterum oil, especially with emulsifying bases, exhibited wound healing activity, outperforming negative controls. Varied ointment concentrations highlighted distinct healing effects, underscoring the therapeutic potential of Combretum platypterum in promoting wound closure and tissue regeneration.