A review of the in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory and wound-healing activities of medicinal plants

Context: Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection. However, if prolonged, it leads to further damage and severe conditions like cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus. Medicinal plants, known for their bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and anthocyanins, exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and low toxicity properties. Aims: To thoroughly investigate the anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effects of various medicinal plants by analyzing their bioactive compounds and mechanisms of action. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed (2014–2024) was conducted using “plant AND anti-inflammation AND wound healing.” Studies were screened by PRISMA guidelines; inclusion required original in vitro or in vivo data on the anti-inflammatory or wound-healing effect of the plant extract. Results: Of 970 identified articles, 33 met inclusion criteria. These studies were analyzed for plant-derived inhibition of inflammatory mediators and promotion of wound closure via fibroblast migration and collagen synthesis, and 35 plant species were found to have anti-inflammatory and wound-healing activities. The results show that Curcuma mangga, Solanum diploconos, and Curcuma longa are among the most effective plants, demonstrating significant inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production, reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and acceleration of fibroblast proliferation. In wound healing assays, these plants promoted faster closure and improved collagen deposition, contributing to efficient tissue regeneration. Comparatively, they provided the best results at lower concentrations and shorter healing times than other plants. Conclusions: Curcuma mangga, Solanum diploconos, and Curcuma longa may serve as promising candidates for further pharmaceutical development for anti-inflammatory and wound-healing pharmaceuticals; nevertheless, skin irritation and toxicity tests will need to be performed to guarantee their safety.