Review Article

Impact of phytochemical-based hydrocolloid dressings on wound healing: A comparative review

Sipho Sibanda, Mapula Razwinani, Keolebogile Shirley Motaung
Journal of Medicinal Plants for Economic Development | Vol 9, No 1 | a267 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/jomped.v9i1.267 | © 2025 Sipho Sibanda, Mapula Razwinani, Keolebogile Shirley Motaung | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 11 July 2024 | Published: 27 January 2025

About the author(s)

Sipho Sibanda, Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Applied Science, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
Mapula Razwinani, Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Applied Science, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
Keolebogile Shirley Motaung, Technology Transfer and Innovation Unit, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa

Abstract

Background: Wound healing is an important occurrence consisting of a myriad biochemical processes. The recent introduction of phytochemical-based dressings to expedite wound healing uses a multi-targeted approach including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.

Aim: The review aimed to conduct an exhaustive search of the existing literature on plant-based hydrocolloid dressings for wound healing and to evaluate the dressing efficacy in comparison to standard dressings.

Setting: The review offers a worldwide overview of plant-based hydrocolloid dressings and their use.

Methods: A systematic search using keywords was done to identify clinical and randomised control trials from 2019 to 2024. The following databases were queried: Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct and Web of Science. Data appraisal was done by an analysis of the data quality by the authors.

Results: Of a total of 866 records identified, 4 qualified for further assessment. The data retrieved showed that the use of phytochemical-based hydrocolloids is more effective compared to non-plant-based hydrocolloids.

Conclusion: The data analysis revealed that there are few research studies on plant-based hydrocolloids, and there is a need for further research in the area. In addition, the dressings significantly expedite wound healing offering a multifaceted approach because of the different mechanisms of action including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cell proliferation.

Contribution: This study highlights the need for further studies on hydrocolloids produced from plant extracts for effective wound healing.


Keywords

hydrocolloid; phytochemical; wound; wound healing; antioxidant; anti-inflammatory; cell proliferation

Sustainable Development Goal

Goal 3: Good health and well-being

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