Moringa oleifera-Loaded Hydrogel: Assessment of Wound Healing Potential in an Animal Model

Introduction: Phytopharmaceuticals Moringa oleifera have gained attention for its potential in wound healing, including antimicrobial and antioxidant attributes by various mechanisms. Extracts from this plant have shown promise in accelerating wound healing processes, enhancing fibroblast cell proliferation and migration, and providing antioxidant benefits. The primary objective of this research was to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of Moringa oleifera extract- loaded hydrogels for wound healing applications. Methods: Moringa oleifera extract-loaded hydrogels were prepared by incorporating Moringa oleifera extract into varying concentrations of carbopol-940 and were subjected to in vitro characterizations. The optimized hydrogel (MH1) was further subjected to in vivo evaluations in an excision wound animal model activity. Result: Evaluation of herbal hydrogels showed optimum pH, Viscosity, spreadability, and swelling index. in vitro drug release profiles showed up to 87.01 ± 0.74% release over a period of 24 h. Further, the in vivo studies revealed the accelerated wound healing potential of the hydrogel, which was comparable to the marketed formulation. Discussion: The improved therapeutic activity of the hydrogel exhibited significant and comparable wound healing activity owing to the presence of antioxidants and antimicrobials in the Moringa oleifera extract. Also, the hydrogel facilitated wound healing through maintaining a moist environment at the wound bed as well as preventing microbial growth. Conclusion: This study strongly highlights the efficacy of the Moringa oleifera-loaded hydrogel as a powerful and innovative wound dressing, presenting it as a compelling candidate for next-generation wound care and advanced therapeutic management.