The effect of topical 0.5% humic acid gel on male rats with skin ulcer

Abstract

Background Humic derivatives have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Aim This study aimed to assess the experimental wound-healing effect of 0.5% humic acid gel. Materials and Methods A full-thickness skin wound was created on the dorsal side of 24 Sprague Dawley male rats (220–250g). The animals were then randomly divided into the control, sham, and experimental groups. Skin wounds were bandaged daily using sterile gauze dipped in normal saline, carboxymethylcellulose, and 0.5% humic acid for 21 days. The wound-healing rate was evaluated grossly and histologically at various time intervals post-injury. Results Wound-healing percentage was significantly higher in the gel treatment group at all time points (P < 0.05). The mean number of inflammatory cells was significantly lower in the humic acid gel group than in the other groups (P < 0.001). Moreover, the number of new vascular cells and fibroblasts were significantly increased in the humic acid gel compared to the control (P < 0.001). Conclusion These data confirmed that 0.5% humic acid gel accelerates wound healing, probably by anti-inflammatory effects, as well as by promoting vascular and fibroblast proliferation. Therefore, the humic acid gel may be used to improve wound care.