Evaluation of the Effects of Three Plant Species (Myrtus Communis L., Camellia Sinensis L., Zataria Multiflora Boiss.) on the Healing Process of Intraoral Ulcers in Rats

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM: Use of traditional medicine to relieve human sufferings has a very long history. The effects of these plants in wound curing and subsequently making the best mucosa patch for treatment of oral ulcers is still under investigation. PURPOSE: The main goal of present research work is to assess the efficacy of Myrtus communis L., Camellia sinensis L. and Zataria multiflora Boiss. on oral ulcer recovery process in rats. MATERIALS AND METHOD: In this study, 60 healthy adult male rats in 5 groups were investigated. A wound with 2 mm diameter was punched into the hard palate of each rat. For topical application, a mucosa patch of materials or blank was packed into the wound. Histological samples were harvested on post injury days 2, 4, 6, and 8. RESULTS: This study showed that there were no significant differences between groups in the reduction of weight. Comparison of clinical wound size showed that group Myrtus communis L had the greatest reduction in wound size on days 4, 6 and 8, which was significantly different from the other groups. The highest thickness of epithelium was observed in groups Myrtus communis L and Camellia sinensis L on days 6 and 8. Group Myrtus communis L showed the highest values on days 6 and 8. This study showed a lower mononuclear cell counts in group Myrtus communis L on days 6 and 8 compared to other groups which was statistically significant. CONCLUSION: The results of the present study showed that Myrtus communis L. has significant effects on oral wound healing processes. These favorable results might introduce a new group of material or medicine derived from this plant.