Evaluation of wound healing and antimicrobial properties of hydrogel dressings of starch containing ethanolic extract of propolis in the rat

Abstract

Background: In this research, we intended to fabricate hydrogel wound dressing by solvent-casting method with combination of starch and propolis, which is suitable for wound due to their suitable properties. Current wound dressings do not have capability of protecting wound from injuries and microorganism contaminations ideally. Methods: For preparation of film, a certain amount of corn starch was mixed with deionized water and followed by the addition of glycerol in a specific ratio (4/10 dried weight of starch). The ethanolic extract of propolis was added to the aforementioned solution in ratios of 0.25, 0.5, and 1 percent. The obtained mixture was casted on polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) mold and their structure and features were characterized using mechanical properties, scanning electron microscope (SEM), and antimicrobial activity. Findings: The antimicrobial properties of the wound dressing showed significant improvement by increasing of propolis concentration. There was a significant difference about the rate of wound healing in group of hydrogel dressing of starch and hydroalcoholic extract of propolis compared to other group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: According to our findings, nanosilver dressing can be effective in controlling superficial wound infection. © 2018, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.