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Department of Pharmacology, Siddhant College of Pharmacy, Maval, Pune-412109
Wound-healing is a complex and tightly regulated physiological process involving coordinated cellular and biochemical mechanisms that restore the structural and functional integrity of damaged skin. However, delayed or impaired healing continues to pose a significant clinical challenge, highlighting the need for safe and effective therapeutic alternatives. Medicinal plants have emerged as promising wound-healing agents due to their affordability, biocompatibility, and minimal side effects. Their therapeutic potential is mainly attributed to diverse phytoconstituents, including flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, and phenolic compounds, which exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and tissue-regenerative properties. Mimosa tenuiflora (Willd.) Poir. commonly known as “jurema-preta,” is a well-documented medicinal plant traditionally used for the treatment of skin and wound disorders. Its bark and other plant parts contain several bioactive constituents that contribute to different phases of wound repair, including hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling, while also supporting tissue regeneration and minimizing scar formation. Preclinical investigations using in vitro and in vivo models have demonstrated enhanced fibroblast proliferation, increased collagen synthesis, improved angiogenesis, and accelerated wound contraction following treatment with its extracts. Nevertheless, clinical outcomes remain variable, suggesting that differences in formulation, dosage, and phytochemical standardization may significantly influence therapeutic efficacy. This review summarizes the phytochemical profile and pharmacological activities of Mimosa tenuiflora, with particular emphasis on its wound-healing potential and its prospects for integration into evidence-based modern therapeutic approaches.
Wound-healing is a complex biological process that restores the structural and functional integrity of damaged tissues and involves a coordinated cascade of cellular and biochemical events, including inflammation, wound contraction, re-epithelialization, angiogenesis, and tissue remodeling [1,8,9]. Disruption of this regulated process may result in chronic or non-healing wounds [7]. A wound is defined as a break in the epithelial integrity of the skin, leading to disturbance of its normal anatomical structure and function [2]. The skin plays a vital role in protecting the body from external environmental factors, and its damage due to burns, cuts, and ulcers represents a major clinical challenge. Delayed wound-healing can lead to complications such as infection, prolonged inflammation, and increased healthcare burden [3]. Herbal medicines have gained considerable importance in wound management due to their affordability, easy availability, and reduced risk of side effects. Medicinal plants contain a variety of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, terpenoids, saponins, and phenolic constituents, which contribute to wound-healing through mechanisms like microbial inhibition, oxidative stress reduction, and regulation of inflammatory responses [3,12]. The genus Mimosa, belonging to the family Fabaceae, comprises several species with diverse pharmacological properties such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing activities [10]. Among them, Mimosa tenuiflora, commonly known as “jurema-preta,” is widely distributed in tropical regions and has been traditionally used for the treatment of wounds and skin disorders [6]. The bark of this plant is rich in tannins and other bioactive compounds that promote tissue repair and regeneration, playing an important role in different phases of wound-healing, including inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling, thereby enhancing the overall healing process [15].
Plant Profile and Phytochemistry of Mimosa tenuiflora:
Figure 1. Mimosa tenuiflora (Willd.) Poir.| Kew Science (Plants of the World Online)
Figure 1 illustrates that Mimosa tenuiflora is a medicinal plant known for its wound-healing activity due to the presence of bioactive compounds.
Mimosa tenuiflora (Willd.) Poir. belonging to the family Fabaceae is widely known as “jurema-preta” and has been traditionally used for the treatment of wounds and various skin disorders [6]. The plant is rich in bioactive phytochemicals, particularly condensed tannins and other phenolic compounds such as procyanidins and prodelphinidins, which contribute to its therapeutic properties [10]. Different parts of the plant, including the leaves and stem, have been studied for their medicinal potential, and these phytoconstituents play an important role in wound-healing through antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities [3]. Various extracts of Mimosa tenuiflora, especially ethanolic extracts, have been widely used in wound-healing studies due to their efficiency in extracting polyphenolic compounds [19].
Phytochemistry of Mimosa tenuiflora-
The phytochemical profile of Mimosa tenuiflora has attracted considerable scientific interest due to the presence of diverse bioactive compounds, particularly indole alkaloids and tannins, which are largely responsible for its pharmacological activities [6].
Phytoconstituents-
The wound-healing potential of phytochemicals is associated with their ability to modulate multiple biological processes, including inhibition of platelet aggregation, reduction of inflammation, prevention of microbial infection, and neutralization of free radicals [12]. These combined actions contribute significantly to minimizing tissue damage and promoting efficient wound repair.
Figure 2. Role of phytoconstituents in different phases of wound-healing (Source: RSC Medicinal Chemistry, 2021, Issue 9)
Figure 2 represents that the phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, tannins, and saponins enhance wound-healing by reducing inflammation, promoting collagen synthesis, and accelerating tissue repair.
Alkaloids-
Alkaloids present in Mimosa tenuiflora exhibit various pharmacological activities that support wound-healing. These compounds demonstrate anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and analgesic properties, which collectively contribute to faster tissue repair and recovery [11,12]. Indole alkaloids such as 5-hydroxytryptamine and N,N-dimethyltryptamine have been identified in this plant, particularly in the root bark [6].
Terpenoids-
Terpenoids are important phytoconstituents found in plants that contribute to wound-healing due to their antioxidant properties, and they help in reducing oxidative stress while supporting tissue repair and regeneration [12]. Certain terpenoids, such as carvone, enhance wound-healing through free radical scavenging activity [13].
Flavonoids-
Flavonoids are key bioactive compounds known for their strong therapeutic effects in wound-healing, including regulation of inflammation, free radical scavenging, promotion of angiogenesis, and re-epithelialization [13,21]. They are among the most active phenolic compounds involved in multiple healing pathways and also possess antimicrobial and growth-regulating properties [12,21]. In vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that flavonoids accelerate wound-healing by enhancing collagen synthesis, regulating matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-2) activity, and promoting angiogenesis, thereby supporting tissue repair and regeneration [13,21]. Additionally, they facilitate epithelialization and provide antibacterial effects, contributing to overall improvement in the healing process [12,21]. Clinical studies have reported that Mimosa tenuiflora exhibits strong wound-healing activity, which may be attributed to the presence of flavonoids along with other phytoconstituents [21]
Tannins-
Tannins are high molecular weight polyphenolic compounds with multiple biological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects [12,13,27]. They aid wound-healing by forming a protective barrier over the wound surface, which helps prevent infection and supports a suitable environment for tissue recovery [24]. Tannins contribute to the healing process by scavenging free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, and promoting wound contraction. They also stimulate fibroblast proliferation, collagen synthesis, and angiogenesis during the proliferative phase, thereby enhancing tissue regeneration [22,24]. In addition, their vasoconstrictive action helps reduce capillary permeability, edema, and exudation, leading to faster scab formation and wound closure [22,24]. Furthermore, tannins exhibit antibacterial activity and can modulate inflammatory mediators such as IL-1β, thereby reducing inflammation and accelerating the overall healing process.
Saponins-
Saponins are plant-derived glycosides recognized for their wide range of pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities [13,17]. In the wound-healing process, they help reduce swelling, facilitate re-epithelialization, and support extracellular matrix formation along with collagen production, thereby promoting tissue repair [17,23]. Additionally, saponins stimulate angiogenesis and support skin regeneration, thereby accelerating the overall wound-healing process [23]. Their multifunctional properties, including antimicrobial and antioxidant activity, contribute to improved tissue repair and reduced scar formation [17,23].
Mechanism of Action of Phytoconstituents in Wound healing:
Table 1: Role of Phytoconstituents in wound-healing
|
No. |
Mechanism |
Phytoconstituents Involved |
Role in wound-healing |
Reference |
|
1. |
Antioxidant activity |
Flavonoids, Saponins, Tannins, Terpenoids |
Scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress at the wound site |
[21,22,23] |
|
2 |
Anti-inflammatory activity |
Flavonoids, Saponins, Alkaloids |
Reduce inflammation, swelling, and tissue damage |
[13,17] |
|
3 |
Antibacterial activity |
Flavonoids, Saponins, Tannins |
Prevent microbial infection and protect the wound site |
[12,23] |
|
4 |
Collagen Synthesis |
Flavonoids, Saponins |
Promote extracellular matrix formation and tissue strength |
[17,21] |
|
5 |
Angiogenesis |
Flavonoids, Saponins |
Formation of new blood vessels to supply nutrients and oxygen to healing tissue |
[21,23] |
|
6 |
Fibroblast proliferation |
Tannins, Saponins |
Enhance cell growth and tissue regeneration |
[2,17] |
|
7 |
Re-epithelialization |
Flavonoids, Saponins |
Promote formation of new epithelial layer over the wound |
[21,17] |
|
8 |
Wound contraction |
Tannins |
Reduce wound size and accelerate closure of wound edges |
[22]
|
The wound-healing activity of Mimosa tenuiflora is attributed to multiple mechanisms mediated by its phytoconstituents, as summarized in the table. Antioxidant compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and terpenoids play a crucial role in scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress at the wound site [21,22,23]. Anti-inflammatory constituents help minimize inflammation, swelling, and tissue damage during the early stages of healing, while antibacterial phytochemicals prevent microbial infection and maintain a clean wound environment [13,17,12]. Furthermore, these bioactive compounds promote collagen synthesis and extracellular matrix formation, which are essential for tissue strength and integrity [17,21]. They also enhance angiogenesis by supporting the formation of new blood vessels, ensuring adequate oxygen and nutrient supply to the healing tissue [21,23]. In addition, phytoconstituents stimulate fibroblast proliferation and re-epithelialization, leading to rapid tissue regeneration and restoration of the skin barrier [21,23,17]. Tannins further contribute by promoting wound contraction and accelerating closure of wound edges [22]. As shown in the above table, these coordinated mechanisms significantly enhance the overall wound-healing process.
In vitro Wound healing Activity:
The in vitro wound-healing potential of Mimosa tenuiflora (Willd.) Poir. has been evaluated using primary natural human dermal fibroblasts (pNHDF). Aqueous bark extracts and ethanol-precipitated compounds demonstrated significant biological activity by stimulating mitochondrial function and enhancing fibroblast proliferation at a concentration of 10 μg/mL. These findings indicate that the plant promotes cellular processes essential for tissue repair and regeneration, thereby supporting its wound-healing potential [19].
In vivo Wound healing Activity:
In vivo investigations using laboratory animal models such as rats and mice have provided substantial evidence of wound-healing activity. Experimental studies have shown that treatment with natural agents significantly accelerates wound-healing compared to untreated controls, as evidenced by faster wound contraction, improved re-epithelialization, enhanced collagen deposition, and increased fibroblast proliferation. Additionally, a marked reduction in inflammation and exudate formation has been observed, indicating improved tissue regeneration and repair efficiency [28].
Figure 3. Incision and excision wound model used in wound-healing studies (Source: Koca U. et al., 200
Figure 3 highlights that the Excision and incision wound models are commonly used to evaluate wound-healing activity by measuring wound contraction, tensile strength, and epithelialization. The excision wound model is widely used to assess wound contraction and epithelialization by creating a circular wound on the dorsal region of experimental animals and monitoring healing over time. In contrast, the incision wound model is used to evaluate tensile strength and collagen formation, where sutured incisions are analyzed for wound breaking strength, reflecting tissue repair quality [29]. Studies using these models have demonstrated significantly improved wound-healing outcomes in treated groups, including faster wound contraction, reduced healing time, enhanced collagen deposition, and improved tissue regeneration compared to controls [30]. Histological findings further confirm better tissue organization and regeneration of skin structures. Additionally, in vivo studies using Wistar rats have shown enhanced fibroblast proliferation, angiogenesis, and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration in treated groups, indicating improved healing efficiency [31].
Clinical Studies on Wound healing:
Clinical investigations have evaluated the wound-healing efficacy of Mimosa tenuiflora (Willd.) Poir. in patients with venous leg ulcers. In a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study, a standardized hydrogel formulation containing Mimosa tenuiflora extract was administered topically; however, no significant therapeutic effect was observed, and mild adverse effects such as pain and burning sensation were reported in some patients. In contrast, another randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial using a polyphenol-rich hydrogel formulation demonstrated a significant reduction in ulcer size, with no reported adverse effects. These findings suggest that differences in formulation composition and phytochemical standardization may critically influence the clinical efficacy of Mimosa tenuiflora in wound-healing [19].
Mechanism of Wound healing Process:
Wound-healing is a complex and well-coordinated biological process that begins immediately after tissue injury. It involves a series of overlapping and time-dependent phases, including hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling, which collectively restore the structural and functional integrity of the skin [3,8,21]. Although most wounds heal in an organized manner, certain pathological conditions may impair this process, leading to delayed or chronic wounds requiring continuous management. Wounds can be classified based on depth of injury, healing duration, and underlying pathology, which significantly influence healing outcomes and patient quality of life [5].
Figure 4. Stages of wound-healing (hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling) (Source: Wasatch Photonics)
The Wound-healing occurs in four phases involving coordinated cellular and biochemical processes as shown in the above Figure 4.
1. Hemostasis Phase-
Hemostasis is the initial phase of wound-healing, aimed at preventing blood loss and stabilizing the injured tissue. It begins with vasoconstriction followed by platelet activation and aggregation, forming a temporary platelet plug at the injury site [5,8]. Exposure of collagen enhances platelet adhesion, and activation of the coagulation cascade leads to fibrin clot formation, which provides structural stability and acts as a scaffold for cell migration [19]. Platelets also release growth factors and cytokines that initiate recruitment of neutrophils, macrophages, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts, thereby triggering the healing cascade [3].
2. Inflammatory Phase-
The inflammatory phase is characterized by immune activation and protection against infection. It begins within hours of injury and is marked by redness, heat, swelling, and pain due to increased vascular permeability [8,19]. Neutrophils are the first responders, followed by macrophages, which perform phagocytosis and release cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and TGF-β, regulating inflammation and promoting transition to the proliferative phase [19]. Lymphocytes further regulate immune responses and contribute to extracellular matrix modulation [3]. While reactive oxygen species (ROS) aid in defense mechanisms, excessive ROS may contribute to oxidative stress and delayed healing [16].
3. Proliferative Phase-
The proliferative phase is responsible for tissue formation and wound closure, typically occurring from day 3 to two weeks post-injury [4,14]. It is characterized by the formation of granulation tissue composed of fibroblasts, collagen, and extracellular matrix components [8]. Fibroblast migration is stimulated by growth factors such as PDGF and TGF-β, leading to the synthesis of collagen, fibronectin, proteoglycans, and hyaluronan, which provide structural support [3,4]. Angiogenesis ensures an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients, while epithelial cells migrate to cover the wound surface, restoring the skin barrier [3].
4. Remodeling Phase-
The remodeling phase is the final stage of wound-healing, during which granulation tissue is replaced by mature scar tissue, resulting in increased tensile strength [4,8]. It may continue from weeks to months or even up to one year [14]. This phase involves collagen remodeling, degradation, and resynthesis, leading to improved tissue stability. Fibroblasts, macrophages, and blood vessels gradually undergo apoptosis, reducing cellularity and vascularity [3]. Myofibroblasts contribute to wound contraction, and the final scar exhibits an organized collagen structure with enhanced mechanical strength [14].
Types of Wounds:
Wounds are broadly classified into acute and chronic types based on their healing progression and duration. Acute wounds are recent injuries that follow a normal and orderly healing process, progressing through the stages of inflammation, tissue formation, and remodeling within a predictable time frame. These wounds may involve superficial epidermal injury or full-thickness damage affecting deeper tissues and are commonly associated with surgical procedures, trauma, burns, and abrasions [5,8]. Acute wound-healing is regulated by the coordinated action of cytokines and growth factors and typically resolves within approximately three months, depending on the extent of injury [3]. Proper wound coverage and, when necessary, antimicrobial therapy help prevent infection and support the natural healing process [12]. In contrast, chronic wounds are characterized by delayed or impaired healing and fail to progress through the normal stages of repair within an expected period, often persisting beyond three months or showing minimal improvement over time [7]. The healing process is disrupted by factors such as infection, tissue hypoxia, necrosis, excessive exudate, and prolonged inflammation associated with dysregulated cytokine expression [3]. Common examples include venous and arterial ulcers, diabetic ulcers, pressure ulcers, and non-healing burns [5]. In conditions such as diabetes, impaired vascularization and reduced growth factor activity further delay tissue repair and increase the risk of complications [4]. Chronic wounds are frequently associated with pain, infection, and reduced quality of life and may lead to severe complications such as sepsis or amputation if not properly managed. Treatment is further complicated by microbial resistance, including infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) [8]. Traditional medicinal plants such as Mimosa tenuiflora have been historically used for the management of burns and chronic wounds, highlighting their potential therapeutic relevance in modern wound care [19,20].
Comparison with Standard Drug (Povidone-Iodine):
Povidone-iodine is a widely used topical antiseptic in wound management due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It is commonly applied to prevent infection and maintain a clean wound environment. However, despite its effectiveness, conventional antiseptics such as povidone-iodine and other silver-based agents may not always be sufficient in managing infections associated with resistant microorganisms. Moreover, prolonged use of these agents may delay wound-healing due to their cytotoxic effects on regenerating tissues [18]. In contrast, Mimosa tenuiflora exhibits a multifactorial mechanism of action. Its phytoconstituents not only provide antimicrobial activity but also enhance collagen synthesis, fibroblast proliferation, angiogenesis, and overall tissue regeneration. Unlike povidone-iodine, which primarily acts by reducing microbial load, Mimosa tenuiflora supports both infection control and tissue repair simultaneously. Additionally, plant-based formulations are generally associated with lower cytotoxicity and better biocompatibility, which may contribute to improved healing outcomes. Thus, Mimosa tenuiflora may serve as a promising alternative or adjunct to conventional antiseptic agents in wound management, particularly in cases requiring both antimicrobial action and enhanced tissue regeneration.
Future Perspectives:
The growing interest in herbal medicine is largely due to its affordability, accessibility, and comparatively fewer adverse effects. Medicinal plants are rich in various phytochemicals, including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, and terpenoids, which are associated with multiple therapeutic properties. These compounds often work in combination to support wound-healing through mechanisms such as oxidative stress reduction, infection control, and modulation of inflammatory responses [5]. Natural products have gained significant attention as alternative therapeutic agents for wound management due to their safety profile and biological effectiveness. The rising concern of antimicrobial resistance has further emphasized the need to explore plant-based remedies. However, variability in phytochemical composition, differences in experimental models, and lack of standardized protocols highlight the need for well-designed studies to establish consistent clinical efficacy. Standardization of herbal formulations is essential to ensure reproducible and reliable therapeutic outcomes. Owing to their multifaceted mechanisms, including anti-inflammatory and tissue regenerative properties, natural agents hold strong potential for future wound management strategies [28]. Future research should focus on the standardization of extracts, identification of active compounds, development of advanced drug delivery systems, and well-designed clinical trials.
Safety and Toxicity Evaluation of Mimosa tenuiflora:
Studies have shown that the biological effects of Mimosa tenuiflora depend on the nature of the extract used. The aqueous bark extract has been reported to reduce cell viability and proliferation in human dermal fibroblasts, indicating a potential cytotoxic effect at certain concentrations. This effect has been associated with the presence of polyphenolic compounds and saponins in the crude extract. In contrast, ethanol-precipitated and polysaccharide-rich fractions demonstrated a significant increase in fibroblast viability and proliferation, suggesting lower toxicity and improved compatibility with skin cells. Additionally, these fractions showed minimal influence on keratinocyte activity, indicating selective cellular responses. Overall, these findings suggest that while crude extracts may exhibit cytotoxic effects, purified bioactive components of Mimosa tenuiflora are comparatively safer and may contribute positively to wound-healing applications [32]
DISCUSSION:
The present review highlights the significant wound-healing potential of Mimosa tenuiflora, which can be attributed to its diverse phytochemical composition and synergistic mechanisms of action. Previous studies have demonstrated that medicinal plants rich in bioactive compounds play a crucial role in accelerating the wound-healing process through multiple pathways [3,4].
The presence of key phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids contributes significantly to different phases of wound repair. These compounds are known to exhibit strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, which help in reducing oxidative stress, controlling infection, and modulating inflammatory responses during healing [7,13,22]. Flavonoids, in particular, have been widely reported to enhance wound contraction, collagen synthesis, and angiogenesis, thereby promoting faster tissue regeneration [22]. Similarly, tannins contribute to wound-healing by forming a protective layer over the wound surface, preventing microbial invasion, and improving tissue repair mechanisms [23,26]. Saponins are also known to facilitate re-epithelialization and collagen formation, while reducing inflammation and edema in the wound area [18,24]. In addition, alkaloids present in Mimosa tenuiflora exhibit pharmacological activities such as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which further support the healing process [10,12]. Experimental and preclinical studies have also confirmed the effectiveness of plant-based compounds in enhancing wound closure and improving overall tissue regeneration [9,30,31]. Overall, the combined action of these phytochemicals plays a vital role in regulating various stages of wound-healing, including inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. The synergistic interaction of these compounds makes Mimosa tenuiflora a promising natural therapeutic agent for wound management.
CONCLUSION:
Mimosa tenuiflora (Willd.) Poir. is a promising medicinal plant with significant wound-healing potential due to the presence of various bioactive phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids. These compounds contribute to wound-healing through multiple mechanisms, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities, as well as by promoting collagen synthesis, angiogenesis, and tissue regeneration. Pharmacological studies, including in vitro and in vivo investigations, have consistently demonstrated its ability to accelerate wound contraction, enhance epithelialization, and improve overall tissue repair. However, clinical findings have shown variable outcomes, indicating that formulation type, phytochemical composition, and standardization play a crucial role in determining therapeutic efficacy. Overall, the available evidence supports the potential of Mimosa tenuiflora as an effective natural agent for wound-healing. Further well-designed preclinical and clinical studies are required to establish its safety, efficacy, and standardized therapeutic application in modern wound management.
REFERENCES
Swati Jogdhand, Rutuja Mule, Pratiksha Pol*, Swati Deshmukh, Wound healing Potential of Mimosa tenuiflora: Phytochemical Constituents and Pharmacological Perspectives – A Review, Int. J. of Pharm. Sci., 2026, Vol 4, Issue 5, 6381-6392. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20356209
10.5281/zenodo.20356209