Effects of Satureja montana L. and Origanum vulgare L. Hydrolates in Rabbit Burn Wound Model: Evaluation of Inflammatory, Antioxidant Activity, and Pro-Regenerative Properties in the Skin

Abstract

Burn injuries are among the most difficult skin lesions to manage, as they trigger intense inflammatory responses and oxidative stress, which often impair angiogenesis, delay epithelialization, and increase the risk of chronic non-healing wounds. Hydrolates of Satureja montana L. and Origanum vulgare L., rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, offer a promising natural alternative for wound management. This study investigated their effects on local redox and inflammatory status in full-thickness burn wounds. Male rabbits (n = 5 per group) received full-thickness burns and were assigned to control, untreated, conventional treatment (Levomekol liniment, boric acid, and Betadine-soaked gauze dressings), Satureja montana L. hydrolate, and Origanum vulgare L. hydrolate groups. Skin samples were collected on days 3, 7, and 14. ELISA was used to quantify redox (MDA, SOD, GSH) and inflammation (TNF-α, IL-1, IL-10) markers. Histochemical (H and E, Masson’s trichrome) and immunohistochemical (CD-45) analyses, plus the Greenhalgh score, were used to assess wound healing. Burn injuries significantly altered the redox status in all treated and untreated groups. The hydrolates reduced MDA and restored SOD/GSH levels, with Satureja montana L. showing the most pronounced effects. Satureja montana L. hydrolate modulated pro- and counter-inflammatory cytokines (decreasing IL-1/TNF-α, upregulating IL-10). An assessment of local cellular immunity showed the most prominent decrease in CD45+ cell counts in groups treated with Satureja montana L. and Origanum vulgare L. hydrolates. This study provides promising evidence that Satureja montana L. and Origanum vulgare L. hydrolates offer promise as topical therapies for burn wounds by modulating ROS production and local inflammatory status and by improving wound healing, with Satureja montana L. hydrolate exhibiting the most pronounced therapeutic effect.