Phytotherapy for Chronic Wound Management in the Era of Antibiotic Resistance
Summary: This literature review explores the potential of plant-derived compounds (phytocompounds) in managing chronic wounds, particularly in the context of rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and biofilm-associated infections. Chronic wounds often stall in the inflammatory phase, complicated by polymicrobial biofilms that protect pathogens and resist antibiotics. Phytotherapy offers biocompatible, low-toxicity, and cost-effective alternatives with antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and wound-healing properties. Compounds such as flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, tannic acid, coumarin, resveratrol, berberine, and curcumin show promise in reducing oxidative stress, promoting clotting, stimulating collagen synthesis, and combating infections. Combining natural agents with conventional therapies could enhance outcomes and reduce reliance on resistant antibiotics.
Key Highlights:
- Background: Chronic wounds are characterized by impaired healing, prolonged inflammation, and frequent biofilm-driven infections. AMR limits the effectiveness of antibiotics, underscoring the need for novel strategies.
- Mechanisms: Phytocompounds disrupt quorum sensing, suppress virulence factors, reduce oxidative stress, and stimulate angiogenesis and fibroblast activity. They enhance all four healing phases: hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling.
- Examples:
- Coumarin: reduces oxidative stress, stabilizes clotting, improves perfusion.
- Tannic acid: promotes coagulation, wound contraction, and capillary growth.
- Curcumin: modulates growth factors, reduces oxidative stress, enhances collagen synthesis.
- Resveratrol: anti-inflammatory, reduces cytokine activity, supports angiogenesis.
- Berberine: antimicrobial and vascular-stabilizing effects.
- Clinical potential: Phytocompounds offer synergy with conventional care, biocompatibility, and lower costs. Their antioxidant and antimicrobial effects make them attractive for integration into wound care regimens.
- Limitations: Evidence remains largely preclinical or early clinical. More controlled trials are required to standardize dosing, delivery, and long-term outcomes.
Read the full article on Wounds (HMP Global Learning Network)
Keywords:
phytotherapy,
chronic wounds,
antimicrobial resistance,
biofilms,
curcumin,
resveratrol,
berberine,
tannic acid,
coumarin