Morphometric Changes of Hair Follicles in Rat Excisional Wounds Treated by Hirudo Verbana Extract

The study examined the effects of a water–salt extract from the medicinal leech Hirudo verbana on hair follicle regeneration in excisional skin wounds of 60 male rats. The experimental group, treated with the extract, showed faster transition to the proliferative phase, improved skin structure, and increased hair follicle density and diameter compared to the control group. By day 30, the number of hair follicles surpassed that of intact skin, suggesting activation of follicular neogenesis and maturation. The extract's bioactive compounds, known for their anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, and regenerative properties, enhance local circulation and tissue oxygenation, promoting hair follicle regeneration and wound healing. The study concludes that Hirudo verbana extract is a promising natural agent for skin repair and wound management.