Topical administration of hydroethanolic extract of Lawsonia inermis (henna) accelerates excisional wound healing process by reducing tissue inflammation and amplifying glucose uptake.

Several studies have reported the beneficial effects of Lawsonia inermis on wound healing, but the mechanism of action is still unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a new ointment formulation of hydroethanolic extract leaves of L. inermis on wound healing by gene expression of glucose transporter-1 (Glut-1) and insulin-like growth factor I (Igf-1) in Wistar rats. The animals were topically treated with different doses of L. inermis. An experimentally induced circular excisional wound model of 314 mm² surface area was surgically created. The percentage of wound contraction and histopathological changes was assessed at different time points following wound induction. The expression of Glut-1 and Igf-1 was evaluated by reverse-transcription PCR. Topical administration of L. inermis, dose dependently, shortened inflammatory phase, accelerated cellular proliferation, and enhanced wound contraction ratio. It also improved revascularization, collagen deposition, and re-epithelialization rate and promoted intracytoplasmic carbohydrate storage (P < 0.05). Moreover, the mRNA levels of Igf-1 and Glut-1 were significantly higher in the L. inermis-treated groups than the control group (P < 0.05). Topical administration of L. inermis promoted the healing process by reducing tissue inflammation and increasing glucose uptake, which was mediated by up-regulating the expression of Igf-1 and Glut-1.