Green nanomedicine approach for diabetic wound healing: A Review Article

Master Program of Pharmacy, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Islam Indonesia, Yogyakarta, Indonesia

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Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that often leads to complications, such as diabetic foot ulcers that are difficult to heal. Conventional therapies remain limited due to microbial resistance, high costs, and adverse side effects. Therefore, more effective alternatives are needed. Plant extracts have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. However, their bioavailability and stability are low. Nanoparticle technology can overcome these limitations by increasing the stability, penetration, and effectiveness of bioactive compounds. This study aims to examine the potential of plant extract-based nanoparticle formulations in accelerating diabetic wound healing. The research method employed a comprehensive literature review, utilising the Google Scholar and PubMed databases. Six articles met the inclusion criteria. The results showed that various plant extracts, such as Mentha piperita, Punica granatum, Bacopa monnieri, Althaea officinalis, and Ocimum sanctum, can act as reducing agents and sources of bioactive compounds in nanoparticle synthesis. These were shown to increase antimicrobial activity, accelerate wound contraction, and support tissue regeneration in diabetic mouse models. Thus, plant extract-based nanomedicines have the potential to be a promising therapeutic strategy for diabetic foot ulcers. However, further research is needed on toxicity, phytochemical mechanisms, and clinical validation.