Effect of F. parviflora Extract on Wound Healing in Diabetic Rats

Background and purpose: Some native species of medicinal plants are abundantly found in Iran. High incidence of ulcers in diabetic patients necessitates research on herbal medicines with fewer side effects. This study was conducted to evaluate the histological variables of the Fumaria parviflora extract on the repair of ulcers in diabetic rats. Materials and methods: The study was carried out in 48 adult male Wistar rats at 14-15 weeks of age, weighing 200 ± 10 gr. Diabetes was induced by injection of alloxan. The animals were randomly divided into 4 groups (n= 12), including negative control group (healthy without any treatment), positive control group (diabetic with no treatment), experimental group I (diabetic treated by eucerin cream), and experimental group II (diabetic treated by a cream containing 3% F. parviflora). Histopathological examination was done at the end of days 3, 7, 14, and 21. The size of the scars and tissue indices were measured in these groups. Results: There was a significant difference between the experimental group II and other groups in the rate of recovery (P <0.001). Compared to experimental group I, the scores for some microscopic parameters were higher in experimental group II. Conclusion: According to current study, topical use of F. parviflora could diminish inflammation and accelerate wound healing. It was also found to be highly efficient in accelerating the transition from inflammatory to fibroblast hyperplasia phase. Therefore, F. parviflora as an efficient low-cost herbal medicine could be used in accelerating wound healing.