The utilization of oral and topical rosella calyx extract (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) to enhance re-epithelialization in Wistar rats (Rattus novergicus)

Background: The management of third-degree burns primarily aims to enhance the re-epithelialization process. Any impairment in this process may cause delayed wound healing. Rosella calyx (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) can act as an immunomodulator, possibly affecting the re-epithelialization process. Methods: Rats were randomized after adaptation for a week. Rats (n = 30) were induced with third-degree burns, and it was ensured that they met the criteria for third-degree burns. We divided them into six groups and administered treatment according to each group: 1) negative control group using cold cream only; 2) positive control using silver sulfadiazine (SSD) only; 3) treatment group using rosella calyx extract orally (250 mg/kg) + cold cream; 4) treatment group using rosella calyx extract topically only (250 mg/kg); 5) treatment group using rosella calyx extract orally (250 mg/kg) + SSD; and 6) treatment group using rosella calyx extract orally and topically (each 250 mg/kg). They were sacrificed on day 17 and then stained with hematoxylin and eosin. The variable studied was the re-epithelialization length (mm). Statistical analysis involved analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc correction with P < 0.05 taken as significant. Results: Despite treatment using rosella calyx extract orally + topically showing the longest re-epithelialization, this group showed no significant difference compared with SSD treatment, indicating they may show a similar effect in the re-epithelialization process. Conclusion: Rosella calyx extract applied orally and topically may show a therapeutic effect in the re-epithelialization process. Further research needs to be conducted.