Evaluation of the pro-healing effect of a commercial formulation of aqueous extract of Triticum vulgare in hyperglycemic mice.

INTRODUCTION: Triticum vulgare extract, marketed as Fitostimoline™, is used to stimulate re-epithelialization and tissue regeneration. The use of this extract in chronic ulcers such as diabetic foot ulcers may represent a viable treatment alternative. OBJECTIVE: To study the effects of 15% T. vulgare extract cream on wound healing in normoglycemic and streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemic BALB/c mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Hyperglycemia was induced in mice with a single dose of streptozotocin (200 mg/kg) (group STZ-1) or with multiple doses (30 mg/kg for five consecutive days) (group STZ-2). Excisional wounds were created on the dorsal skin, and T. vulgare extract was applied topically twice daily for ten days. We assessed wound closure, histological changes, and inflammatory markers. RESULTS: Triticum vulgare extract treatment significantly enhanced wound closure in both normoglycemic and hyperglycemic mice compared to controls. Histological analysis revealed fewer mast cells, reduced inflammation in T. vulgare extract-treated groups, and increased collagen deposition in the treated normoglycemic and STZT-1 groups. Triticum vulgare extract treatment also reduced IL-6 and IL-1β levels in certain hyperglycemic groups. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, in this murine model, the topical application of T. vulgare extract improved wound healing in both normoglycemic and hyperglycemic conditions by accelerating closure, improving histological architecture, and rebalancing inflammatory cytokines toward a pro-healing profile, indicating its potential as a therapeutic option for diabetic wound care. The findings suggest multiple mechanisms of action for T. vulgare extract. Nonetheless, further research is necessary to elucidate these mechanisms and to fully explore potential clinical applications.