Acne Scars

J Ethnopharmacol. 2009 Jun 15; Deshmukh PT, Fernandes J, Atul A, Toppo EETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Calotropis gigantea R.Br. (Asclepiadaceae) is a perennial undershrub found chiefly in wastelands throughout India. It has been reported as a traditional folkloric medicine for a variety of alignments. The plant Calotropis gigantea is also used in some parts of India for wound healing in combination with other plants. However there are no scientific reports on wound healing activity of the plant Calotropis gigantea R.Br. AIM OF THE STUDY: To investigate the effects of Calotropis gigantea root bark on wound healing activity in rats by excision, incision and dead space wound healing models in rats. METHODOLOGY: Wistar albino rats of either sex weighing between 180-200g of either sex were topically treated with extract formulated in ointment by using simple ointment BP as base. 5 % (w/w) ointment once daily in excision wound model. Calotropis gigantea ethanolic extract were given orally at a dose of 100mg/kg, 200mg/kg, and 400mg/kg in incision and dead space wound healing models. Rats of standard groups were treated with 5% Povidone iodine ointment topically. The percentage wound closure; epithelization time, Hydroxyproline content and scar area on complete epithelization were measured. RESULTS: Topical application of Calotropis gigantea in excision wound model increased the percentage of wound contraction. Scar area and epithelization time was decreased. In incision wound and dead space wound breaking strength of wounds and hydroxyproline was increased. CONCLUSION: Calotropis gigantea accelerated wound healing in rats and thus supports its traditional use.