Hydrogen-Rich Saline Promotes Wound Healing in Mice
Local Treatment of Hydrogen-Rich Saline Promotes Wound Healing In Vivo by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress via Nrf-2/HO-1 Pathway
Research hubs: Skin & Dermatology System
This research was done in animals. Results in animals often don't carry over to people.
- Evidence type
- Animal study (mouse)
- Authors
- Yujie Li, Chengcheng Shen, Xin Zhou, Jianghe Zhang, Xiaoyue Lai, Yiming Zhang
- Journal
- Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity
- Year
- 2022
- PMID
- 35300173
- Study Type
- Mouse
- Delivery
- Saline (Dissolved)
- Dose
- local treatment with hydrogen-rich saline
- Outcome
- Positive
- Peer Reviewed
- Yes
- Cited by
- 28 (OpenAlex, as of November 2026)
- Country
- China
TL;DR
Applying hydrogen-rich saline directly to wounds can speed up healing by reducing inflammation, oxidative damage, and cell death.
Key Finding
Local application of hydrogen-rich saline significantly shortened wound closure time in mice and reduced oxidative stress and inflammation through activation of the Nrf-2/HO-1 antioxidant pathway.
Summary
Researchers tested whether hydrogen-rich saline (salt water containing dissolved hydrogen gas) could speed up wound healing in mice. They found that applying hydrogen-rich saline directly to wounds shortened healing time and reduced harmful molecules called free radicals that slow healing. The treatment also decreased inflammation and cell death in the wound area by activating a natural protective pathway in cells called the Nrf-2/HO-1 pathway.
Practical Takeaway
This early-stage mouse study suggests hydrogen-rich saline may help wounds heal faster by reducing harmful oxidative stress, but much more research is needed before any conclusions can be drawn for human use. The study was conducted only in animals, so results may not translate directly to people. Anyone with wound healing concerns should consult their healthcare provider rather than self-treating with hydrogen water products.
Abstract (excerpt)
Wound healing is a complex dynamic process involving a large number of biological events. Excessive oxidative stress is a key factor delaying wound healing. Hydrogen is an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic medical gas with safety, effectiveness, and penetrability. However…