Effect of Pomegranate Extract Cream (Punica granatum) on PDGF and IL-1 Levels in Post Rats Excision Wound

Wound healing requires special attention through proper wound closure and infection control. Evaluating wound healing outcomes is essential to minimize complications. Natural products with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties have the potential to support wound healing at various stages. One such product is pomegranate (Punica granatum), which has been reported to accelerate tissue repair and reduce wound size. This study aimed to investigate the effect of pomegranate extract cream (Punica granatum) on PDGF and IL-1 levels in rats with excision wounds. An in vivo experimental study was conducted using 48 Wistar rats divided into 12 treatment groups, with sample collection performed on day 3 and day 7 after treatment. PDGF and IL-1 levels were analyzed using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. A significant difference in mean IL-1 levels was found using one-way ANOVA (p = 0.000; p < 0.05). Post hoc Tamhane analysis showed that the 20% pomegranate extract cream had the most significant effect in reducing IL-1 levels (p = 0.000). For PDGF, no significant effect was observed on day 3 (Kruskal-Wallis test, p = 0.397), while on day 7, a significant difference in PDGF levels was found between treatment groups (Kruskal-Wallis test, p = 0.010). The 20% pomegranate extract cream significantly increased PDGF levels compared to the bioplacenton group. In conclusion, topical application of pomegranate extract cream increases PDGF levels and reduces IL-1 levels in excision wounds, with the 20% concentration showing the most effective results.