ObjectiveTo investigate the antioxidant, antimicrobial and wound healing potential of Helicteres isora Linn. leaf extracts.

MethodsThe petroleum ether, chloroform, acetone, ethanol and hydroalcoholic extracts of leaves were screened for phytochemicals. The 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide (NO) radical scavenging tests and reducing power assays were performed to measure antioxidant activity; disc diffusion methods were used to evaluate antimicrobial potential. Wound healing activity was evaluated by incision and excision wound rat models.

ResultsThe extracts contained mainly sterols and flavonoids. The hydroalcoholic extract showed remarkable antioxidant and antimicrobial potential and significant (P < 0.05) wound healing activity.

ConclusionsThe identified activities of the hydroalcoholic extract may be attributable to its constituent phytochemicals.