Enhancement of wound healing potential of Fagonia cretica and curcumin-loaded phytosomal gel: Characterization and in-vivo evaluation

Fagonia cretica L. is a medicinal plant rich in flavonoids, phenolics, saponins, and other bioactive compounds with significant therapeutic potential. The present study aimed to develop and characterize phytosomes of Fagonia cretica extract and curcumin to enhance the stability, bioavailability, and therapeutic efficacy of their bioactive constituents. Phytosomes were prepared using the thin-film hydration method with soya lecithin as a phospholipid carrier and characterized for particle size, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency. The phytosomal formulations were incorporated into a topical gel and evaluated for physicochemical properties and in vitro drug-release behavior. The wound-healing potential of the developed gel was assessed using an excision wound model in Wistar rats. The phytosomal gel exhibited good stability, uniform particle distribution, and sustained-release characteristics. Furthermore, it demonstrated enhanced wound contraction, shortened epithelialization period, and improved tissue regeneration compared with the conventional extract gel. The findings suggest that phytosomal delivery of Fagonia cretica extract and curcumin represent a promising strategy for improving their therapeutic performance and pharmaceutical applications in wound management.