Formulation of Cream Preparations from Watermelon Peel Extract (Citrilus vulgaris) and Lime Peel Extract (Citrus aurantifolia) Against Wound Healing in Wistar Rats (Rattus norvegicus) Shintia Okta Anggraini, Harlita
Department of Biology Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Sebelas Maret University.
Abstract
Incision wounds are damage to skin tissue caused by trauma from a sharp object, resulting in bleeding, blood clotting, bacterial contamination, a sympathetic stress response, and cell death. The use of herbal plants is an alternative treatment for incision wounds due to their minimal side effects. Watermelon and lime peels, which are considered organic waste, are known to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can aid the wound healing process. The purpose of this study was to determine the most effective cream formulation combining watermelon rind extract (Citrullus lanatus) and lime peel extract (Citrus aurantifolia) for treating incision wounds in Wistar rats. The rats were divided into three groups: control, F1 (25% watermelon rind extract and 75% lime peel extract), and F2 (75% watermelon rind extract and 25% lime peel extract). The extracts were prepared using the maceration method, and wound diameter measurements were analyzed by one-way ANOVA. Based on the test results, it can be concluded that both F1 and F2 formulations accelerated the healing of incision wounds compared to the control. There was no significant difference between F1 and F2, which may be due to the presence of flavonoid and tannin compounds known to promote wound healing. The average body weights of the control, F1, and F2 groups showed significant differences, possibly because F1 contains 70% orange extract, which has higher flavonoid content than F2 and the control. Flavonoid compounds can enhance the synthesis and secretion of growth hormone, leading to weight gain.
