Evaluating the effect of Tualang honey on the viability and migration of human gingival fibroblasts

Authors

  • Nor Azira Zahadi Periodontic Specialist Unit, Klinik Pergigian Jalan Sultan Mahmud, 20300, Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Ministry of Health Malaysia.
  • Zurairah Berahim School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan.
  • Siti Lailatul Akmar Zainuddin Faculty of Dentistry, Manipal University College Malaysia. Lot 463-1, Jalan Batu Hampar Bukit Baru, 75150 Melaka.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31436/ijohs.v7i1.425

Keywords:

human gingival fibroblast, Tualang honey, viability and migration, wound healing

Abstract

Tualang honey, produced by the wild bee species Apis dorsata, is predominantly found in the South Asian region, particularly in Malaysia. Tualang honey has attracted scientific interest for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties, highlighting its potential for therapeutic use. The study aimed to assess the effects of Tualang honey on the viability and migration of human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) using MTT and scratch assays. HGFs were cultured in standard fibroblast medium at 37°C in a 5% CO2 humidified incubator. Cells were seeded at 5×10³ cells/well in a 96-well plate and incubated for 24 hours before being treated with varying concentrations of Tualang honey, with the negative control receiving only growth medium. After 24 hours, cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay and absorbance was measured at 570 nm. For the scratch migration assay, cells were seeded at 10×10³ cells/well in a 24-well plate and incubated for 24 hours. A scratch was made on the cell layer, followed by treatment with Tualang honey at various concentrations, a negative control (untreated cells), and a positive control (0.1% Gengigel mouthwash). Images were captured at 0-, 24-, and 48-hours using Image-Pro Express software. This study demonstrated that Tualang honey at concentrations of 2.5% and below promoted high cell viability (above 88%), while concentrations ?0.3% significantly enhanced cell migration. These findings indicate that Tualang honey, when applied at appropriate concentrations, is non-cytotoxic and promotes cell proliferation and possesses strong potential for periodontal tissue healing applications. Therefore, it shows potential as a natural agent for enhancing periodontal wound healing.

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Published

2026-02-28

How to Cite

Zahadi, N. A., Berahim, Z., & Zainuddin, S. L. A. . (2026). Evaluating the effect of Tualang honey on the viability and migration of human gingival fibroblasts. IIUM Journal of Orofacial and Health Sciences, 7(1), 28–39. https://doi.org/10.31436/ijohs.v7i1.425