ABSTRACT
Aims: To prepare and evaluate herbal wound dressing comprising of Annona glabra L. leaf extract and calcium alginate on experimental animal models. Study design: Qualitative analysis for phytochemicals was carried out. Wound dressing material was formulated and characterized before the efficacy of formula was evaluated. Place and Duration of Study: School of Biotechnology, International University, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, between August, 2012 and May, 2013. Methodology: Phytochemicals from ethanol leaf extract were screened by standard methods. Extract-loaded calcium alginate films were first dried cast from the gel formulations of 1.0%, 2.0%, 3.0%, 4.0%, and 0% (w/v) extract. The dried film morphologies and in vivo wound healing profiles were then investigated. Third-degree burn wounds were induced in Swiss albino mice divided into seven groups of 5 mice each. Groups I-V were given formula containing 1.0%, 2.0%, 3.0%, 4.0%, and 0% (w/v) extract, respectively. Group VI (negative control) received no treatment at all while group VII (positive control) was applied the standard dressing, Urgo Algoplaque (Laboratories Urgo). Results: Phytoconstituents that were detected including flavonoids, glycosides, saponins tannins, steroids, acidic compounds, and anthraquinones. There was a negligible difference in the physicochemical appearance of the prepared dressings. The topical application of these extract-loaded films with a dose of up to 4% extract accelerated significantly (P<0.001) wound healing process compared to the standard dressing Urgo Algoplaque. Groups I-IV were healed in a mean time of 16.8, 14.6, 11.6, and 11 days respectively, which were even faster than that of the standard dressing (18.4 days). The most prominent formula facilitated wound contraction without dermal irritation was the film impregnated 3.0% extract. Conclusion: Administration of the A. glara contained dressing promotes burn healing as evidenced by decreased healing time and faster wound contraction. It could be stated that A. glabra leaves possess wound healing property.