Therapeutic potential of traditional Chinese medicine loaded nanocarriers in wound management: Current status and their future perspective

Abstract

Introduction

Wound healing is the main physiological process that repairs tissue injury and maintains the body’s protective barrier. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has long been known for its herbal remedies promote wound healing. Nanocarriers, which include liposomes, nanoparticles, and hydrogel, enhance the stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery of TCM’s bioactive component. The integration of nanotechnology and TCM represents and an emerging frontier for advanced wound care.

Methods

Data was gathered from PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases covering the period from 1965 to 2024 to ensure comprehensive inclusion of relevant literature. The search utilized keywords such as Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wound Healing, Herbal TCM, and Nanocarrier Systems. Studies that investigated the pharmacological effects of TCM in combination with nanocarriers were selected for analysis. Experimental wound healing models, in vitro assays, and in vivo animal studies were included to assess the efficacy of nanocarrier systems in enhancing the therapeutic potential of TCM as a nanotheranostic approach.

Results

The results showed that TCM compounds in nanocarriers like liposomes, nanoparticles, and hydrogel had a big impact on wound healing. Different TCMs, such as Acorus calamus, Artemisia annua, Angelica dahurica, etc., showed enhanced bioavailability and sustained release when incorporated into nanocarrier systems. In animal tests, they increased collagen production, lowered inflammation, and accelerated epithelialisation in preclinical models.

Conclusion

The integration of TCM with nanocarrier technology presents a promising approach to pursuing wound healing therapies. Nanocarriers increase the bioavailability and medical effect of TCM compounds, providing more effective and targeted treatment for wound care. The combination of ancient knowledge of TCM with modern nanotechnology can bring revolution in the future to heal wounds and provide innovative solutions for fast and more effective recovery.