In vivo Irritation Study of Melastoma malabathricum Cream Formulation on ICR Mice

摘要

Melastoma malabathricum is a traditional herb that is used to treat wound on skin. It has also been proven to have antiviral activity against Herpes Simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). In this study, M. malabathricum cream formulation was developed by incorporating M. malabathricum aqueous extract into cream base. The safety and biocompatibility of the formulated cream was investigated by topically applying the cream onto the back of ICR mice skin. Treatment with M. malabathricum was found to accelerate wound contraction with less scar formation. The effect of M. malabathricum has prompted a possibility that M. malabathricum might contribute in enhancing the healing process of cutaneous lesion caused by HSV-1. The formulated cream did not cause any skin irritation or adverse effect to ICR mice when topically applied within seven days of exposure.