EFFICACY OF ROSEMARY INFUSED NOVEL GELATIN SPONGE FOR PALATAL WOUND HEALING

Background: Palatal wound healing following connective tissue graft (CTG) harvesting in periodontal plastic surgery is often associated with post-operative pain, delayed healing, and excessive bleeding. Hemostatic gelatin sponges are commonly used for wound management; however, they lack bioactive properties that could further enhance healing. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a medicinal herb with analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of rosemary-infused hemostatic gelatin sponges in promoting palatal wound healing. Methods: A rosemary extract was prepared by stirring 15 g of rosemary powder in 150 mL of double-distilled water overnight, followed by filtration. The test group was formulated by incorporating 3 g of gelatin into 100 mL of rosemary extract, while the control group contained 3 g of gelatin in 100 mL of double-distilled water. Both solutions were stirred overnight, freeze-dried, and lyophilized to obtain resorbable sponges. The sponges were characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), contact angle analysis, drug release profile, and degradation rate Result: SEM analysis showed that the rosemary-infused sponge exhibited a highly interconnected porous structure, enhancing fluid absorption and cell migration. Contact angle analysis indicated improved hydrophilicity in the rosemary-infused sponge. The drug release study demonstrated a biphasic release pattern, ensuring initial burst release followed by sustained bioactivity. Degradation studies confirmed complete resorption of both sponges within seven days. Conclusion: Rosemary-infused gelatin sponges enhance wettability, controlled drug release, and biodegradability, making them a promising bioactive wound dressing for periodontal applications