Characterization of Carboxymethylcellulose and Alginate-Based Dressings Incorporated with Plant Extract

In this study, hydrogel dressings based on alginate and carboxymethylcellulose were developed, supplemented with extracts from Tagetes nelsonii, Agave americana, and Aloe vera gel, for the treatment and healing of wounds. For this purpose, the physical and mechanical characterization of the films was carried out using different concentrations of the crosslinker, calcium chloride. Additionally, T. nelsonii was the extract that exhibited the highest antioxidant capacity as well as in vivo wound-healing activity. Subsequently, plant extracts were added, the dressings were characterized, and antibacterial activity was determined by the Kirby–Bauer method against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The results indicated that the prepared dressings have potential for use in wound treatment and healing, with the dressing containing T. nelsonii extract being the only one with antibacterial activity. Therefore, all of them can be used for acute wounds on body parts such as the palms of the hands, knees, elbows, and soles of the feet.