Effect of Asparagus racemosus on fracture healing in rabbits: a radiographic and angiographic study

New Zealand white rabbits (18) were randomly divided into groups I and II (control) having 9 animals in each group. The fracture of ulna was created in each animal under general anaesthesia using thiopental sodium (2.5%). Radius acted as a natural splint. The animals of group I were fed with powdered Asparagus racemosus along with rabbit feed throughout the study period. However, in group II animals only powdered rabbit feed was given. Healing at the fracture site was assessed by plain radiography and angiography at 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th day interval. Radiographical observation revealed a well organized and dense callus at 21st day in animals of group I whereas in animals of group II, callus of slightly less radiographic density was observed at this interval. Angiographic observation revealed hypervascularity at the fracture site at 7th and 14th day interval in group I animals. On day 14, in group II animals major vessels lack continuity along with reduced vascularity around the fracture site. The results of present study suggest that feeding of dry root powder of Asparagus racemosus promotes early fracture healing in rabbits