Histological evaluation of the anti-inflammatory effects of Alkanna tinctoria on the cutaneous wounds healing in rat

Introduction: Searching the methods improving wound healing is always one of the major subjects of interest. Alkanna tinctoria is applied as a wound dressing since ancient times in traditional medicine, however its healing effects was not evaluated histologically. Methods: 96 male Sprague – Dawley rats were randomly divided into three (experimental, placebo, and control) groups. On the basis of defined periods, each group was subdivided into four subgroups with eight rats in each subgroup. Animals were anesthetized with intraperitoneal injection of Ketamine hydrochloride and Xylazine, and a full-thickness incision were made on the skin of each rat at the side of back region. Experimental and placebo groups received treatment with Alkanna tinctoria root ointment and vaseline, respectively. Treatment was continued twice a day till euthanasia on defined periods. Control group received no treatment. Animals were euthanized with intracardiac injection of Ketamine hydrochloride in defined periods. Specimens were taken from the injured area and was placed in 10% formalin solution. The specimens were processed and sectioned in 5 micrometers. Sections were stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin and studied microscopically. Finally, the data were analyzed statistically using Kruskal-Wallis test. Differences were considered significant at P<0.05. Results: Data showed significant (P<0.05) difference in extent of inflammation (day 7), intensity of inflammation (days 5 and 7) among experimental, placebo, and control groups. Conclusion: The findings demonstrated that Alkanna tinctoria cxhibit anti-inflammatory effect(s) and could improve wound healing through reducing extent and intensity of inflammation.