Abstract

Objective: The wound healing is a complex dynamic process consists of four integrated and overlapping phases: hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation and tissue remodeling. These phases and their biophysiological functions must occur in the proper sequence and continue for a specific duration at an optimal intensity. The aim of present study was to evaluate wound healing properties of Alpinia galanga rhizomes used in traditional medicine. Materials and methods: The qualitative chemical analysis was performed to detect the presence of different chemical constituents. The petroleum ether extract and ethanolic extract of the rhizomes were formulated as ointment (2% and 5%w/w) and were investigated for wound healing activity by using incision and dead space wound models. Different biochemical parameters i.e. hydroxylproline content and protein content in the skin tissues were determined. Results: Phytochemical screening reveals the presence of steroids, glycosides, flavonoids, carbohydrates and proteins in ethanol extract. Ethanol extract was shows significantly (P < 0.01) faster wound healing up to days 9th day. Various antioxidants enzymes and nonenzymatic substances found increased in healed tissue. The histopathological findings also support with increased fibroblasts throughout the healed tissue. Conclusion: Results were concluded that the ethanolic extract from rhizomes of A. galanga exhibited a definite wound healing effect which can be correlated its antioxidant property.

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