Topical Dracunculus vulgaris Schott Extract Attenuates Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasis in BALB/c Mice via Clinical and Histopathological Modulation

Abstract Background Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated dermatological disorder marked by abnormal keratinocyte proliferation, persistent inflammation, and dysregulation of immune pathways, often accompanied by systemic comorbidities. Despite available treatments, many patients experience side effects or relapse. Recent interest has turned to plant-based therapies with anti-inflammatory potential. Objective This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of Dracunculus vulgaris Schott extract on imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis in BALB/c mice. Methods BALB/c mice were divided into four groups: Control, IMQ-induced psoriasis, IMQ + D. vulgaris , and IMQ + betamethasone. IMQ cream (5%) was applied topically for 6 days to induce psoriatic lesions. D. vulgaris extract and betamethasone were administered topically once daily. The extent and severity of lesions were evaluated through a modified version of the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scoring system. Skin thickness, spleen weight, histological changes (via hematoxylin and eosin staining), and interleukin (IL)-17 cytokine levels (via ELISA) were also analysed. Results D. vulgaris significantly reduced PASI scores, skin thickening, and splenomegaly, with effects comparable to betamethasone. Histological examination confirmed substantial improvement in epidermal architecture and a reduction in inflammatory infiltration. Although IMQ-induced IL-17 elevation was not statistically significant—possibly due to strain-specific immune responses—treatment groups showed mild normalization of IL-17 levels. Conclusion Treatment with D. vulgaris extract produced significant improvements in clinical presentation and histopathological features, indicating its promise as a topical, plant-based therapeutic option for psoriasis.