Molecular insights and efficacy of guava leaf oil emulgel in managing non diabetic as well as diabetic wound healing by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress

Inflammopharmacology. 2025 Mar;33(3):1491-1503. doi: 10.1007/s10787-025-01648-7. Epub 2025 Feb 8.

Abstract

Wound healing in diabetic patients is often compromised due to excessive inflammation, oxidative stress, and impaired angiogenesis, leading to delayed recovery and increased susceptibility to complications. This study aimed to develop an emulgel formulation of guava leaf oil, derived from Psidium guajava (Myrtaceae), and evaluate its wound healing potential in nondiabetic and diabetic rats. Preliminary phytochemical analysis of guava leaf oil identified active compounds such as D-limonene, β-caryophyllene, and 1,8-cineole, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The emulgel was formulated and assessed for physical attributes, including pH, viscosity, spreadability, and stability. The emulgel demonstrated potent antimicrobial activity, with the 1% concentration showing significant efficacy. In vivo studies revealed enhanced wound contraction in diabetic rats treated with the emulgel, supporting its role in promoting excision wound healing. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of guava leaf oil emulgel as an effective agent for managing nondiabetic and diabetic wounds, providing a foundation for future clinical applications.

Keywords: Emulgel; Guava leaf oil; Inflammation; Wound healing.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / isolation & purification
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / pharmacology
  • Antioxidants* / pharmacology
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental* / drug therapy
  • Gels
  • Inflammation* / drug therapy
  • Male
  • Oxidative Stress* / drug effects
  • Plant Leaves* / chemistry
  • Plant Oils* / chemistry
  • Plant Oils* / pharmacology
  • Psidium* / chemistry
  • Rats
  • Rats, Wistar
  • Wound Healing* / drug effects

Substances

  • Plant Oils
  • Antioxidants
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Gels