<![CDATA[Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disease that impairs wound healing, including traumatic ulcers in the oral mucosa, by suppressing fibroblast proliferation. Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the effect of Moringa oleifera leaf extract gel on the number of fibroblasts during the healing process of traumatic ulcers in diabetic Wistar rats. Methods: This experimental study used a post-test only control group design. A total of 8 groups (n=4 rats/group) were observed across four time intervals (days 3, 5, 7, and 9). The rats received applications of either 15% Moringa oleifera leaf extract gel or 3% Na-CMC gel (control) three times daily. Labial mucosal tissues were harvested, and fibroblast counts were evaluated using Hematoxylin and Eosin staining. Data were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test. Results: The mean fibroblast ratios between the 15% Moringa gel and 3% Na-CMC gel groups were: day 3 (3.1 vs. 3.0), day 5 (4.3 vs. 3.85), day 7 (3.75 vs. 5.3), and day 9 (7.4 vs. 6.05). Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences on days 3, 5, and 9, whereas a statistically significant difference was observed on day 7. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds in Moringa leaves—such as flavonoids, phenolics, and vitamin C—reduce free radicals and inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines, enhancing fibroblast survival. Additionally, Moringa oleifera promotes TGF-β1 and VEGF expression, stimulating fibroblast proliferation and angiogenesis..Conclusion: Application of Moringa oleifera on days 3, 5 and 9 resulted in higher fibroblast counts than in the control group, except on day 7.]]>
