Abstract

The Fali tribe of Mubi, Adamawa State, uses the pulverized bark of Acacia Hockii De Wild (Kuffran) for treatment of wounds and traditional embalmment. This experiment was aimed at evaluating the wound healing potential of the aqueous extract of A. hockii De Wild bark on albino rats. A total of twelve rats were used for the experiment and the animals were divided into four groups (Gp) of three rats each. Gp 1-wounded-untreated; Gp 2- wounded, treated with petroleum jelly; Gp 3- wounded, treated with standard drug and Gp 4 - wounded, treated with A. hockii extract. Wound excision was done following standard procedures, while treatment was performed by topical application for 9 days, and healing was measured (cm) at intervals of 3 days. Results obtained, showed significant (p<0.05) increase in the percentage wound contractions in all the experimental groups, though the highest (11.00 ± 0.02%) was in the group 4 treated with A. hockii extract when compared to control group 1 (1.0 ± 0.65%), group 2 (5.33 ± 0.65%) and group 3 (6.83 ± 0.65%) which was observed between day 0 and day 3. The rate of wound contractions increased significantly (p < 0.0 5) by the 9th day when compared to the 3rd and the 6th day, respectively. Higher contractions were observed mostly in groups 4 and 3 when compared to the other groups (control and group 2). This research therefore provides scientific justification to the use of Acacia hockii De Wild bark powder in wound treatment and possibly having some antimicrobial activities as well.