Citrus limon L. Gel Stimulate Lymphocytes and Interleukin‑10 Expression in Traumatic Diabetic Oral Ulcers

Background: Citrus limon L. and its peel report anti‑inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties. However, the effects of C. limon L. gel to treat traumatic oral ulcers on diabetic conditions have yet to be investigated. Purpose: This study aims to discover the potent effect of C. limon L. on traumatic diabetic oral ulcers, in terms of both lymphocytes and interleukin (IL)‑10 expression. Materials and Methods: C. limon L. gel was made from C. limon L. peel and was extracted by means of steam distillation. Twenty male, diabetic Wistar rats with traumatic ulcers on the inferior labial mucosa were divided into four groups (n = 5). The control groups were treated with 3% carboxylmethyl celullosa natrium and the treatment groups were treated with C. limon L. gel. Each treatment was administered once a day for either 5 or 7 days. Lymphocytes were analyzed by means of hematoxylin and eosin staining and IL‑10 expression by immunohistochemistry staining. An independent t‑test (P < 0.05) was used to analyze and determine the number of lymphocytes and IL‑10 expression. Results: The number of lymphocytes and IL‑10 expression in the treatment groups on the fifth and 7^th days was higher than those in the control groups (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The essential oil in C. limon L. peel can be used to treat traumatic diabetic oral ulcers, as it is able to stimulate the number of lymphocytes and IL‑10 expression.