The Effect of the Stem Bark of Khaya senegalensis on Wound Healing in Rabbits: A Preliminary Study

Background : This experimental study was carried out to investigate the effect of powdered bark of Khaya senegalensis on wound healing in rabbits. Method : A total of eight rabbits were grouped into two groups: 1 and 2. Square wounds were made at the lumbar area of each rabbit by removing the skin to expose the fascia covering the lumbar muscles each wound was measured and to the wound of the experimental group (Group 1), approximately 0.75g (1.5ml) of the stem bark was spread over the wounded region in paste form. Nothing was applied to the wound of the control animals. All the eight wounds were measured using a vernier caliper and tracing paper for 21days. Later on, the wound areas were estimated by using fine graph paper by counting the number of square millimeters within the traced areas. Results : The information obtained was analyzed graphically and the wound healing curve showed that wound closure in the experimental group was more rapid compared to the control group (Group 2). Conclusion : It was concluded that the stem bark used in this experiment may play a role in wound healing by accelerating wound closure. However, further analysis of the stem bark is required before any extrapolations of its effect on human wound healing is made. Keywords: Khaya senegalensis, Wound Healing, Cutaneous Wounds, Medicinal Plants, Rabbits