Therapeutic potential of hydrogels based on plant extracts and zinc oxide nanoparticles in skin lesions

Colonization of skin lesions with various infectious agents is still a major health threat. The misuse and abuse of antibiotics and synthetic drugs has led to increased resistance of pathogens and therefore difficulties in treating these medical conditions, requiring the development of new materials with antimicrobial efficacy. Thus, the aim of the study was to determine the therapeutic potential of hydrogels based on plant extracts (Chelidonium majus L., Arnica montana L., Calendula officinalis L., Aristolochia clematitis L., Hippophae rhamnoides L.) and zinc oxide nanoparticles in skin lesions by assessing cytotoxicity and cell viability. The two types of zinc oxide nanoparticles were obtained at 100 atmospheres and oven dried as well as at 100 atmospheres and spray dried. The data from our study suggest that none of the hydrogels tested show a notable cytotoxic effect on fibroblast culture. Dilution of the stock product in all experimental samples resulted in a cell viability of over 80%, reflecting that these hydrogels may be a therapeutic alternative in the wound healing process.