OBJECTIVE

An anthocyanin complex (AC), combined Zea mays and Clitoria ternatea extracts, was evaluated for topical oral wound healing in rats and a clinical trial in orthodontic patients.

RESULTS

AC enhanced anthocyanin permeation in vitro. In rats, 10% w/w of AC in a mucoadhesive gel (AG) reduced erythema and sizes of oral wounds after topical applications at higher extent than its placebo gel. Acute orthodontic wounds in 68 volunteers were randomly assigned to topically receive either AG or placebo gel and double-blind assessed. Wound size reduction and wound closure enhancement were obvious in AG-treated group on day 3 (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

At 10% w/w, AC promoted wound closure and possessed a potential in healing stimulation of acute oral wounds.