Healing Properties of a Ointment Formulation Containing Ethanolic Extract of Cnidoscolus Quercifolius Pohl Bark

The skin is responsible for protecting the system against external agents and, in the event of injury, its integrity is compromised and it needs repaire. The use of Cnidoscolus quercifolius, known as faveleira, a plant native to the Brazilian caatinga, in the treatment of wounds by traditional populations is well known, due to the presence of tannins which act as a physical, antiradical and chelating agent during the healing process. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of an ointment based on the extract of faveleira bark, rich in tannins, as a model for treating wounds. For this purpose, samples of the faveleira tree were collected in the municipality of Serra dos Bois (Pernambuco - Brazil), for extraction with soxhlet in increasing order of polarity with the choice of hexane and ethanol solvents. Based on the in vitro results, the ethanolic extract was chosen after evaluating the yield, phytochemistry and quantification of tannins, showing antioxidant capacity. From the in vivo evaluation of topical toxicity (negative result), healing potential was observed, with a 94 % reduction of the wound, and also demonstrating anti-inflammatory activity. These results help to provide understanding on Cnidoscolus quercifolius therapeutic potential for wound healing.