EMERGING ROLE OF QUERCETIN AND IMMORTELLE ESSENTIAL OIL EMULGEL IN DIABETIC WOUND CARE: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Diabetic wounds are characterized by prolonged inflammation, excessive oxidative stress, microbial infection and impaired tissue regeneration which significantly delay the healing process. This review focuses on the design, development and characterization of an emulgel formulation incorporating Quercetin and essential oil derived from Helichrysum italicum (immortelle). Quercetin which is potent flavonoid exhibits strong antioxidant and reactive oxygen species scavenging properties, thereby reducing oxidative damage at wound site. Immortelle essential oil contributes antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects and has been reported to inhibit matrix metalloproteinases which helps to preserve extracellular matrix integrity and promote tissue repair. The emulgel system combines the advantages of both emulsions and gels, offering improved drug solubilization, enhanced skin penetration and better patient compliance. Key formulation parameters such as selection of oil phase, surfactant system and gelling agent werecritically evaluated to obtain a stable and effective formulation. Characterization techniques including physicochemical evaluation, spreadability, viscosity, drug release, antimicrobial studies and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assay are discussed. The synergistic action of quercetin and immortelle essential oil within an emulgel matrix presents a promising topical approach for improving diabetic wound healing outcomes. This review highlights the potential of combining natural bioactives in advanced delivery systems for enhanced therapeutic efficacy.