Histopathological Assessment of Wound Healing in Mice Treated with Helianthus Tuberosus Powder

Objective: Several medicinal plants have been given significant attention in the medical field due to their effect on wound healing. This study aims to identify the effectiveness of tuberosus helianthus powder in skin wound healing in mice. Material and Methods: Tuberosis helianthus powder was purchased from a commercial supplier (medicinal Korean herbs, prince herb). The powder was stored in a dry, airtight container at room temperature until use. It was applied directly to the incisional wounds at a specific concentration and frequency (50 mg twice daily). Thirty-six male mice were randomly assigned to three time points (3, 7, and 14 days), with 12 mice per time point. Each mouse received two incisional wounds: one on the left side, serving as the control, and another on the right side, designated as the experimental wound. At each time point, 12 mice were euthanized, yielding 24 wound samples (12 control and 12 experimental) per time point. In total, 36 control wounds and 36 experimental wounds were analyzed. Three physical parameters were taken, including the number of inflammatory cells, blood vessels, and epidermis thickness. All these parameters were on the dorsal aspect of the thoracolumbar region, into which tuberous helianthus powder was typically done in the treated day duration. Meanwhile, the day durations for control mice were left without any treatment. The mice were euthanized on days 3, 7, and 14 after wound healing for histopathological study. Results: The histopathological analysis using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining revealed significant differences between the control and treatment groups. On day 3, the control group exhibited pronounced inflammatory responses with extensive inflammatory cell infiltration, necrotic tissue, and fibrin clot formation. In contrast, the treatment group showed early signs of wound healing, such as mild inflammatory response and reepithelialization with keratinized stratified squamous epithelium. Throughout the study, the treatment group demonstrated faster wound contraction, enhanced tissue remodeling, and reduced inflammatory cells compared to the control. By day 14, treated mice displayed mature epidermis and dermal granulation tissue with significant angiogenesis, suggesting accelerated wound healing. These findings support the potential of Helianthus tuberosus powder in promoting wound healing. Conclusion: Tuberosus helianthus powder plays an important role in the healing pathway in wound healing.