A Histological Evaluation of Pumpkin Oil Seeds Extract on Skin WoundsThat Induced by TCA in Albino Rats

Abstract

Pumpkin (Cucurbita spp.) is a nutritionally rich plant whose seeds contain high levels of
bioactive compounds such as unsaturated fatty acids, tocopherols, sterols, and polyphenols. These
constituents contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing potential, making
pumpkin seed oil (PSO) a promising candidate for dermatological applications. This study aimed to
investigate the histopathological effects of pumpkin seed oil on trichloroacetic acid induced skin
injuries in male Albino rats. A total of 49 rats were randomly assigned into seven groups, including
a negative control, a positive control, a corn oil vehicle control, and three PSO treatment groups
receiving 25%, 50%, 100% concentrations of the oil and Mebo Group treated topically with Mebo
ointment. Dermatitis was chemically induced using 40% trichloroacetic acid to simulate the clinical
and histological features of atopic dermatitis. Topical applications were administered daily, and tissue
samples were examined histologically using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson's trichrome
staining to assess epidermal integrity, inflammatory infiltration, necrosis, and adnexal structure
preservation for a period of 30 days. demonstrated a dose-dependent therapeutic effect of PSO, with
the 100% PSO group showing near-complete restoration of normal skin architecture, including intact
epidermis, reduced inflammation, and preserved sweat and sebaceous glands. In contrast, the positive
control and corn oil groups exhibited severe tissue damage and inflammatory infiltration. The 25%
and 50% PSO groups showed partial recovery with variable histological improvements. These
findings highlight the regenerative and anti-inflammatory potential of PSO, particularly at higher
concentrations, and support its use as a natural topical agent for managing inflammatory skin
conditions.