FORMULATION OF NATURAL ANTIMICROBIAL WOUND-HEALING HYDROGELS USING BIOPOLYMER-BASED MATERIALS: A REVIEW

Wound healing is a coordinated biological process involving haemostasis, inflammation, proliferation and tissue remodelling. Infection, excessive exudate, persistent inflammation and impaired tissue regeneration can delay this process, particularly in chronic wounds. Hydrogel wound dressings are three-dimensional, hydrophilic polymer networks capable of absorbing wound fluid, maintaining a moist environment and conforming to irregular wound surfaces. Natural and naturally derived biopolymers—including chitosan, alginate, gelatin, collagen, cellulose derivatives and hyaluronic acid—are widely investigated because of their biodegradability, tunable physicochemical properties and potential biological compatibility. Natural antimicrobial agents such as medical-grade honey and selected plant-derived compounds may be incorporated to provide additional activity; however, efficacy depends on composition, concentration, release, wound conditions and rigorous testing. This narrative review summarises the rationale for biopolymer-based hydrogel dressings, key polymer and bioactive-agent choices, common preparation approaches, quality evaluation, limitations and future directions. Preparation strategies discussed include physical blending and ionic gelation, covalent crosslinking, freeze–thaw processing and in situ gelation. Important evaluation parameters include swelling, gel fraction, degradation, mechanical strength, water-vapour transmission, pH, antimicrobial activity, cytocompatibility and in vitro release. The literature indicates strong potential for multifunctional dressings, but promising laboratory results should not be equated with proven clinical benefit. Batch variability of natural ingredients, sterilisation effects, residual crosslinkers, stability, manufacturing scale-up and regulatory requirements remain significant challenges. More standardised comparative studies and well-designed clinical investigations are needed before new formulations can be recommended for routine patient care.