Preliminary Toxicity Assessment of Black Forest Honey and Garlic Extract for Postpartum Perineal Wound Healing
https://doi.org/10.53770/medica.v8i10.1148
Keywords
Black Forest Honey Garlic Extract Toxicity Antioxidant Activity Perineal Wound InfectionAbstract
Postpartum perineal wound infection remains a significant cause of maternal morbidity. Interest in natural therapies has encouraged the investigation of black forest honey and garlic as potential wound-healing agents. This study evaluated the preliminary toxicity of black forest honey from Ujung Kulon, Banten, combined with garlic (Allium sativum) extract for potential postpartum perineal wound management. A laboratory experimental study employed the Brine Shrimp Lethality Test (BSLT) to assess toxicity and the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay to evaluate antioxidant activity. Artemia salina larvae were exposed to different extract concentrations, and Probit analysis was used to determine the median lethal concentration (LC50). The combination exhibited biological activity, with an LC50 of 230.4 ppm (95% CI: 19.5–388.9 ppm), indicating moderate toxicity according to established classifications. The Probit model demonstrated an adequate fit (Pearson Chi-square = 10.128; p = 0.429), supporting the toxicity estimate. Potential bioactive constituents include phenolic compounds, flavonoids, hydrogen peroxide, and allicin, which may contribute to antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The combination demonstrated biological activity and moderate toxicity, suggesting potential for further investigation in postpartum perineal wound management. However, these findings do not establish clinical safety or efficacy. Further antimicrobial testing, in vivo studies, and clinical trials are necessary to determine its safety, therapeutic potential, and suitability for preventing postpartum perineal wound infections.
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