Therapeutic potential of Jatimukuladi Varti Anjana in alkali burn-induced corneal injury and neovascularization in albino rats

Introduction Corneal transparency is maintained by its avascular nature, and disruption following injury can lead to corneal neovascularization (CNV), resulting in visual impairment. Although current treatment such as corticosteroids, NSAIDs, anti-VEGF agents, and surgical interventions are available, their use is often limited by adverse effects, recurrence, and cost. Jatimukuladdiv arti Anjana (JMV), a classical ayurvedic ophthalmic formulation with reported anti-inflammatory and tissue-healing properties, was evaluated for its therapeutic efficacy in an alkali burn-induced CNV model in albino rats. Methods Eighteen Swiss albino rats (36 eyes) were used. Corneal injury was induced in albino rats using a standardized alkali burn model. Animals were allocated to control, standard treatment, and JMV-treated groups ( n = 6 rats/group). Clinical assessments were performed at predetermined intervals using validated scoring criteria for corneal opacity, neovascularization, vessel size, corneal haze, and wound healing on days 0, 7 and 14 in a blinded manner. Histopathological analysis was conducted on day 15. In addition, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) analysis was performed to characterize the phytochemical profile of JMV. Results JMV treatment was associated with significant improvement in corneal healing, characterized by reduced opacity, neovascularization, vascular enlargement, and corneal haze compared with the untreated control group. Histopathological findings supported these observations, revealing attenuation of inflammatory and fibrotic changes with improved tissue organization and epithelial restoration in treated animals. Discussion The present study evaluated the therapeutic potential of Jatimukuladi Varti Anjana (JMV) in an experimental model of alkali burn-induced corneal injury and neovascularization in albino rats. The findings demonstrated that JMV significantly improved corneal healing, as evidenced by reduced corneal opacity, neovascularization, vessel size, and corneal haze compared with the untreated control group. Conclusion JMV demonstrated significant anti-angiogenic and wound-healing potential in alkali-burn-induced CNV. These findings support its potential role as an integrative therapeutic option for corneal neovascularisation.