Asterohyptis stellulata: Phytochemistry and wound healing activity

Wound healing is a fast and efficient process. However, several factors can inhibit healing, causing scars and chronic wounds. This affects patients in their physical integrity, economic and emotional stability. Many plants that are used in wound healing treatment have antioxidant/anti-inflammatory activity through ROS regulation and antibacterial activity. Asterohyptis stellulata is used for wound treatment. Nonetheless, this activity has not been evaluated and its secondary metabolites are unknown. Therefore, the objective of this study was to analyze its phytochemical composition and evaluate the healing activity of A. stellulata. For the identification of secondary metabolites, the following were carried out: phytochemical screening, quantification of total phenols, and HPLC/MS analysis. The antibacterial and antioxidant activities were also determined. Next, to evaluate the healing activity of topical application of A. stellulata, the extract was mixed with the Beeler base to form an emulsion and an irritability test was performed. The emulsion was evaluated on incisional wounds of CD1 et/et mice, with tests of tensile strength, total re-epithelialization time, wound closure speed, and histological analysis. The phytochemical analysis showed that A. stellulata has phenolic compounds, two quercetin derivatives and a glycoside rosmarinic acid as main compounds. The extract exhibited medium antibacterial and antioxidant activities. A. stellulata emulsion was non-irritating, promoted closure speed of wound (1.479 ± 0.043 mm/day), increased tensile strength (980 ± 89.44 g), and histological analysis showed it promoted mice skin regeneration, compared to the controls (Recoveron® and Beeler base). This study confirms the traditional use of the A. stellulata.