Therapeutic potential of Citrus hystrix DC. peel essential oil on ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced skin damage in mice

Abstract

This study sought to assess the therapeutic role of kaffir lime (Citrus hystrix DC.) peel essential oil (CHPEO) on ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced skin damage in mice. Mice were exposed to UVB radiation and topically treated with CHPEO once daily for 21 consecutive days. Skin assessments were performed weekly over four weeks. Skin morphology scores significantly differed among groups (p < 0.05), with the UVB group showing severe damage (5.20 ± 0.84) (p < 0.05). CHPEO treatment reduced damage scores dose-dependently, with CHPEO10 achieving 0.40 ± 0.55, comparable to VAP (0.40 ± 0.55). In skin regeneration, the UVB group maintained high damage scores (9.95 to 7.09), whereas CHPEO10 reduced scores to 2.56, similar to VAP’s 2.79 (p < 0.05). Antioxidant levels (SOD, CAT, TAC) were significantly restored in CHPEO-treated groups, with the 10% concentration nearly matching VAP. Additionally, CHPEO10 markedly reduced TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 to near-normal levels. Histological analysis confirmed that CHPEO10 restored epidermal thickness to values comparable to the control group. These results indicate that high-concentration CHPEO (10%) effectively mitigates UVB-induced skin damage, enhancing skin morphology, regeneration, antioxidant defenses, and reducing inflammation.

Keywords

• Kaffir lime
• Mouse model
• Photoprotection
• Protection
• Skin damage

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