Characterization of Chitosan Persian Gum Hydrogel Containing Jaft and Yarrow Extracts for Enhanced Wound Healing

This study presents the development and evaluation of a novel chitosan/Persian gum hydrogel loaded with an internal layer of oak fruit (Jaft) and yarrow extracts, designed to enhance wound healing. The hydrogel was synthesized using chitosan and Persian gum, selected for their biocompatibility and ability to promote wound healing. The incorporation of Jaft and yarrow extracts was aimed at augmenting the hydrogel's therapeutic efficacy. Characterization of the hydrogel using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed the successful integration of the extracts and revealed a semicrystalline structure with a porous morphology conducive to controlled drug release. In vitro studies demonstrated a pH-responsive release profile, with faster drug release at alkaline pH (8.5) compared to acidic and neutral pH (5.5 and 7.4). The hydrogel exhibited significant antibacterial activity, particularly against Escherichia coli, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values lower than those observed for Staphylococcus aureus. Animal studies further validated the hydrogel's efficacy, showing enhanced wound closure, increased epidermal thickness, higher fibroblast proliferation, and reduced infection rates compared to controls. These findings suggest that the chitosan/Persian gum hydrogel, enriched with natural extracts, holds significant potential as a multifunctional wound dressing, offering a synergistic approach to infection control and tissue regeneration.