FORMULATION DEVELOPMENT, PHYSICOCHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION AND IN-VIVO WOUND HEALING ACTIVITY OF HIBISCUS ROSA SINENSIS LEAVES EXTRACT LOADED NANO EMULSION

Abstract

Wounds are tissue damage that can cause functional disorders and risk of infection. Effective wound management is essential to accelerate tissue regeneration and prevent complications. Hibiscus Rosa sinensis leaves extract contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, and saponins that have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and wound healing activities. However, the limited bioavailability and skin penetration of these active compounds are challenges in topical therapy. This study aims to develop and evaluate a topical drug delivery system based on Hibiscus Rosa sinensis leaves extract nanoemulsion as an alternative therapy to accelerate wound healing. Extraction was carried out using ethanol solvent, then formulated into a nanoemulsion with oil, distilled water, surfactant and  co-surfactant components. Formulation characterization was carried out by measuring particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and physical stability tests. Evaluation of effectiveness was carried out using a wound model in Sprague Dawley rats with the hot plate induction method. Wound healing observations were carried out clinically and histologically for a period of 15 days. The formulation results showed that the nanoemulsion had a particle size of <200 nm, PDI <0.5, and zeta potential of ±25 mV, indicating good physical stability. Wound activity tests showed that topical administration of Hibiscus Rosa sinensis leaves extract nanoemulsion accelerated wound contraction, increased epithelialization, and improved tissue structure compared to the control group. Hibiscus Rosa sinensis leaves extract can be formulated in a nanoemulsion delivery system that shows stable physical characteristics and is effective in accelerating wound healing.