The effect of nigella sativa oil on healing in nasal septum perforations

Abstract

Objective: Nasal Septal Perforation (NSP) is a challenging condition with limited treatment options, often resulting in symptoms like nasal obstruction and epistaxis. Nigella Sativa Oil (NSO), known for its anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties, has shown promise in promoting wound healing. This study aims to investigate the effects of NSO on the wound healing process in an experimental NSP model using rats, exploring its potential as a therapeutic agent for NSP treatment.

Methods: Twenty-two male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly assigned to two groups. Each subject had a Nasal Septal Perforation (NSP) approximately 2 mm in diameter created. NSO (study group) and saline (control group) were applied topically once a day for 14 days. At the end of the 14th day, the rats were sacrificed, and their nasal septa were excised for macroscopic and histopathological examination. Immunohistochemically Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and Proliferating Nuclear Cell Antigen (PCNA) parameters examined. Tissue morphology was evaluated, collagen density was measured. The macroscopic closure rate of the NSPs and the histopathological parameters were analyzed statistically.

Results: NSO group showed significantly higher collagen density, surface morphology score, International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) matrix examination score, PCNA immunoreactivity and macroscopic closure rate of NSPs compared to the saline group (p < 0.05). In terms of VEGF immunoreactivity, no difference was detected between both groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: Locally administered NSO may enhance wound healing in the nasal septum within an experimental NSP model, suggesting that NSO could be an effective alternative or adjunctive treatment for NSP, promoting better clinical outcomes.

Level of evidence: Level 3.

Keywords: Experimental study; Nasal septal perforation; Nigella sativa; Nigella sativa oil; Wound healing.

Fig. 1

Graphic (a) density of collagen, Graphic (b) ICSR surface score, Graphic (c) ICSR matrix score, Graphic (d) PCNA immunoreactivity, Graphic (e) VEGF immunoreactivity. p < 0.05 value was considered significant. Pairwise comparisons for differences between groups were determined by the Mann-Whitney U test.

Fig. 2

Masson trichrome staining (A) Control group, (B) NS group, Sirius red staining (C), Control group, (D) NS group.

Fig. 3

PCNA immunoreactivity (A) Control group, (B) NS group, VEGF immunoreactivity (C) Control group, (D) NS group. Positive cells was shown (→).

Fig. 4

Macroscopic image of perforation area. (A) Control group, (B) NS group.