"Comparative Evaluation of Saussurea Lappa Root Extract Ointment and Standard Therapy on Second-Degree Burn Wound Healing in Rabbits".

BACKGROUND

Saussurea lappa is a traditional medicinal herb valued for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Burn wounds are highly susceptible to infection and oxidative stress, which delay healing; therefore, developing effective plant-based alternatives for burn management is of clinical importance.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the phytochemical composition and healing effects of Saussurea lappa extract and its formulated ointment on second-degree burns in rabbit models.

METHODS

Roots of S. lappa were dried, powdered, and extracted with methanol using a Soxhlet apparatus. The extract was incorporated into ointment formulations containing 1%, 5%, and 10% concentrations. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, phenols, and saponins. Twenty rabbits were divided into four groups: untreated control, base ointment, standard Mebo® ointment, and 10% S. lappa ointment. Second-degree burns were induced under anesthesia, and treatments were applied daily for 21 days. Wound contraction was measured using ImageJ software, and histopathological assessments were performed on days 7, 14, and 21.

RESULTS

The 10% S. lappa ointment demonstrated a wound closure rate of 95.1% by day 20, comparable to Mebo (96.1%) and superior to control groups. Histological analysis revealed complete re-epithelialization, dense collagen formation, and well-developed granulation tissue. The formulation remained physically stable under various storage conditions.

CONCLUSION

The methanolic root extract of Saussurea lappa significantly enhanced burn wound healing in rabbits, likely due to its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects. The 10% S. lappa ointment exhibited efficacy comparable to the standard treatment, suggesting its potential as a safe, natural, and cost-effective topical therapy for burn wound management.