Aim: The aim of the present study was to prepare and evaluate the polyherbal hydrogel formulation for diabetic foot ulcer and related infections.
Materials and Methods: Polyvinyl alcohol is used due to its proven biocompatibility, non-irritancy, and non-immunogenicity. Borax is used as a chemical cross-linker in concentrations ranging from 4 to 20% w/v. Chemical cross-linking is used for the preparation of hydrogels. The characterization of herbal extracts (melting point, infrared spectroscopy, and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy) was also done.
Results: Increasing concentrations of borax decreased the swelling ratio but increased gel fraction value which is indicative of increase gel strength. In vitro release study, among the three extracts, the neem released was found to be more
than Aloe vera and Guduchi.
Conclusion: All the studies done clearly indicate that the optimized formulation has all the properties requisite of an ideal wound dressing with added benefit of excellent wound healing. This formulation holds promise in the future of the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers which may or may not be infected.
Keywords: Azadirachta indica, cross-linking, diabetic foot ulcer, hydrogel