Phytochemical Profiling and Comparative Evaluation of the Wound Healing Potential of Paederia grandidieri (Drake, 1897) Leaf Extracts in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Cutaneous wound healing is a complex biological process involving tightly coordinated cellular and molecular mechanisms. The present study aimed to evaluate the wound healing potential of Paederia grandidieri (Drake, 1897), an endemic species from the arid regions of Madagascar, and to compare its efficacy with the reference pharmaceutical, Madecassol 1%. Phytochemical screening revealed a diverse profile of bioactive secondary metabolites, notably polyphenols, flavonoids, and polysaccharides, which are known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative properties. The therapeutic efficacy was assessed using standardized excision wounds in Wistar rats. Statistical analysis demonstrated no significant difference between ointments containing 10% and 20% P. grandidieri extract and Madecassol 1%, establishing definitive pharmacodynamic equivalence. In contrast, comparison with the negative control group revealed a significant dose-dependent effect, with the 20% formulation exhibiting a more robust statistical significance. Wound healing kinetics documented complete closure within 11 to 12 days, representing an approximate 37% reduction in total healing time compared to the 19 days required for untreated subjects. Furthermore, a peak in regenerative velocity was identified on the 6th day, corresponding to an intensified proliferative phase. These findings provide a robust scientific validation for the ethnopharmacological use of P. grandidieri and highlight its potential as a standardized natural agent for accelerated tissue repair.