Plant-Based Films and Hydrogels for Wound Healing

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dermatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Wound infections complicate healing, driven by rising antimicrobial resistance.
• Conventional antimicrobial agents in wound dressings face increasing microbial resistance.
• Natural alternatives like essential oils (EOs) and plant extracts (PEs) are being explored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the use of films and hydrogels (HGs) for topical delivery of EOs and PEs in wound treatment.
• To discuss the formulation of these natural agents into effective wound dressings.
• To elucidate mechanisms and biological properties for clinical relevance.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on films and hydrogels incorporating EOs and PEs for wound healing.
• Analysis of antimicrobial activity, biocompatibility, and cell viability data.
• Discussion of formulation strategies and delivery mechanisms.

Main Results:

• Films and HGs with EOs/PEs exhibit antimicrobial activity against wound pathogens.
• These formulations promote skin cell viability and fibroblast migration.
• They demonstrate non-toxicity and biocompatibility, overcoming EO/PE limitations like poor bioavailability.

Conclusions:

• Films and HGs offer a promising strategy for topical delivery of EOs and PEs for wound management.
• These advanced wound dressings present a potential alternative to conventional treatments due to enhanced efficacy and natural origin.
• Further research into mechanisms and clinical applications is warranted.