Essential Oils in Skin Tissue Engineering: Opportunities, Integration, and Overcoming Challenges

BACKGROUND: Essential oils (EOs) derived from plants have been utilized for the development of various approaches in biomedical applications due to their superior properties. In particular, their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing effects, alongside their biocompatibility and biodegradability, have made EOs a significant complementary agent in tissue regeneration-focused applications. Initial uses of EOs focused primarily on direct application and evaluation of their therapeutic efficacy; however, these approaches have been limited by issues such as volatility, instability, and potential for irritation. METHODS: This review focuses on current perspectives in tissue engineering strategies, based on the biological functions of EO, such as biocompatibility, antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. Based on this comprehensive background of biological functions, current studies addressing nanoparticle systems, smart delivery systems, and wound dressings and coatings have been analyzed to identify existing issues and strategies to tackle these challenges. RESULTS: In skin tissue engineering applications, innovative strategies such as nanoparticle encapsulation, integration into smart delivery systems, and the development of wound dressings containing EO have been developed. These advanced approaches offer advantages such as improved EO stability, controlled release, and enhanced efficacy, while also enriching the biofunctionality of the platform. While advanced delivery systems improve the stability of EOs, long-term stability under physiological and clinical conditions remains challenging. However, compared to conventional methods, these advancements strengthen the potential of EOs to drive tissue repair processes in a more controlled and functional manner. CONCLUSION: The integration of EO-based tissue engineering with nanotechnology offers a promising approach to optimizing the biological effects of these systems and enhancing the success of their application. Although challenges such as safety, biomaterial interactions, and scalability persist, recent advancements are rapidly overcoming these obstacles. EO-based strategies hold significant potential for overcoming current limitations and advancing the field, particularly in skin tissue engineering.