GC-MS Analysis of the Phytochemical Constituents, Safety Assessment, Wound Healing and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Cucurbita pepo Leaf Extract in Rats

Abstract

In traditional medicine, Cucurbita pepo L. is used for the treatment of rheumatism, diabetes, inflammations, and wound injuries. This study was conducted to evaluate the phytochemical constituents, safety profile, wound healing, and anti-inflammatory activities of Cucurbita pepo leaf extract in rats. The phytochemical analysis of C. pepo extract was carried out using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In acute toxicity tests, the rats orally received a single dose of 5 g/kg extract of C. pepo. In a subacute toxicity study, the rats received 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg of the C. pepo extract via daily gavage for 14 days. Bioactive compounds 1-octen-3-ol, nonanal, trans-β-ionone, phytol, trans-farnesol, and squalene were identified. There were no toxic effects detected in any of the evaluated parameters, namely liver, kidney, haematological, lipid, and antioxidant enzymes. In wound healing, C. pepo extract showed greater % wound contraction and tensile strength, as well as reduced wound healing time (12 days) and epithelialization when compared to the control (normal saline) and povidone-iodine treated groups. Rats treated with C. pepo extract elicit anti-inflammatory activity. The findings of this study revealed that the C. pepo extract has wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties with a wide margin of safety.