Medicinal Plants for Wound Healing ~ NepalAyurveds.com

Discover the power of nature's remedies for wound healing. Explore the benefits of medicinal plants like Aloe vera, Turmeric, and Centella asiatica.

Medicinal plants have long been relied upon for their healing properties, particularly in treating wounds. Over centuries, humans have utilized these plants to address trauma, infection, and disease, drawing from their natural compounds to aid in the healing process. Despite not always being subjected to controlled clinical trials, many traditional medicinal plants have been found to possess therapeutic benefits, with some synthesizing similar compounds that target key biological pathways crucial for wound healing. Popular examples include Aloe vera, Turmeric, and Centella asiatica, which have garnered global recognition for their efficacy in promoting wound healing.

Our skin is very important for staying alive. It helps us feel things around us, keeps our body temperature steady, holds onto important nutrients, protects us from harm, and helps us heal when we get hurt. People have been taking care of their wounds for a very long time. In the past, they used whatever they could find nearby, like water, dirt, plants, and animal parts. Sometimes, they also used ceremonies or rituals to help. Many people in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America still use natural remedies made from local plants, animals, and other natural things to treat wounds. These remedies are often the only option for some people. We're going to talk about some proof that shows these natural remedies can be good and affordable ways to treat skin injuries.

Understanding Cutaneous Wound Healing

Maintaining balance within the body is essential for survival, and the skin plays a crucial role in this by possessing a robust repair mechanism. Cutaneous wound healing, the process by which the skin repairs itself after injury, involves several phases: clotting to stop bleeding, inflammation to clean the wound, tissue growth to fill in the injury, and remodeling to strengthen the skin. Platelets in the blood help form clots, while immune cells like neutrophils and macrophages work to remove debris and fight off any germs. Additionally, various cells, such as fibroblasts and keratinocytes, work together to rebuild the damaged tissue and restore the skin's integrity.

Challenges with Chronic Wounds

While most wounds heal without complications, some may become chronic, especially in individuals with underlying health conditions like diabetes or poor blood circulation. Chronic wounds pose significant risks, including pain, reduced mobility, and social limitations. Moreover, they can be costly to both individuals and healthcare systems, with millions of people affected worldwide. Understanding the reasons behind chronic wounds, such as microbial infections or inflammation, is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies. Managing chronic wounds often involves removing dead tissue, controlling infections, and maintaining an optimal environment for healing.

Treatment Approaches and Future Directions

Effective wound management focuses on addressing the underlying causes of chronic wounds and promoting the healing process. Debridement, the removal of dead tissue, is a common practice to kickstart healing by exposing healthy tissue. Dressings play a vital role in protecting the wound from further infection and promoting a moist environment conducive to healing. However, there is still much to learn about optimal wound care practices, especially regarding the frequency and timing of debridement. Future research aims to improve our understanding of wound healing mechanisms and develop innovative therapies to enhance the outcomes of chronic wound management, ultimately improving the quality of life for affected individuals.

Understanding Traditional Medicine

Traditional medicine is often labeled in various ways by practitioners of modern medicine, such as "alternative," "nonconventional," "indigenous," or "complementary." However, many traditional practices closely resemble modern techniques, particularly in the treatment of wounds. Traditional methods rely predominantly on natural resources like water, plants, animals, and minerals, and they remain highly valued and widely practiced across the globe.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

TCM is rooted in ancient Chinese medical theories such as the Five-Phases and Yin-Yang. These theories are documented in ancient Chinese medical texts like "Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing" and "Ben Cao Gang Mu." TCM often utilizes plants extensively, making it both effective and accessible due to its affordability.

The Influence of Natural Products in Medicine

Remarkably, a significant proportion of new anticancer drugs developed from 1940 to 2002 were derived from natural products. Furthermore, approximately 73% of current pharmaceutical products contain ingredients sourced from nature. The therapeutic efficacy of many traditional medicines arises from natural ingredients found within plants, though their effectiveness can vary widely based on factors such as genotype and environmental conditions.

Meeting Modern Demands

With the urbanization and industrialization of pharmaceutical engineering, there is a growing demand for standardized traditional medicine products with consistent composition, quality, and clinical efficacy. Simultaneously, industrialization has led to stricter product testing procedures to ensure evidence of biological activity and clinical effectiveness.

Here are some medicinal plants for wound healing.

Aloe vera:

For thousands of years, people have been using Aloe vera to treat wounds, burns, and surgical cuts. Aloe vera has natural substances like pyrocatechol and saponins that help fight bacteria. It also contains acemannan, which boosts the immune system and helps wounds heal faster. Applying Aloe vera to wounds can reduce healing time.

Arctium lappa:

Arctium lappa, or burdock, is a plant used in many parts of the world to treat sore throats and skin problems like boils and acne. Studies show it has many benefits, including reducing wrinkles and improving wound healing. It also helps in cell repair and affects certain signaling pathways related to wound healing.

Astragalus propinquus and Rehmannia glutinosa:

These roots are used in traditional medicine for conditions like urinary problems and diabetes. When combined, they have been found to help heal diabetic foot ulcers. They promote wound healing by improving blood vessel growth and reducing oxidative stress in the body.

Ampelopsis japonica:

The roots of this plant, found in parts of Asia and North America, have been used traditionally for burns and ulcers. Studies show that it has properties that protect nerves, fight infections, and even slow down cancer growth. Applying extracts from this plant on wounds can speed up healing and improve tissue repair.

Andrographis paniculata:

This plant, found in parts of Asia, has been used for various ailments like fevers and infections. It has many benefits, including reducing inflammation and fighting off infections. Studies on rats have shown that it can help wounds heal faster by reducing inflammation and promoting the growth of new blood vessels.

Angelica sinensis:

The dried root of this plant is used in traditional medicine for female health issues, inflammation, and other conditions. It has properties that reduce inflammation and promote cell growth. Studies have shown that it can help wounds heal faster by stimulating cell proliferation and collagen production.

Blumea balsamifera:

This plant, found in tropical regions of Asia, is used in traditional medicine for various conditions. Studies have shown that extracts from this plant can help wounds heal faster by promoting the growth of new blood vessels and collagen deposition.

Boswellia sacra:

Frankincense, extracted from this plant, is used in many cultures for treating inflammatory diseases like arthritis. Studies have shown that it can help wounds heal faster by reducing inflammation and promoting the growth of new blood vessels. It also helps in reducing scar formation.

Red Sappan

Wood Red sappan wood is used as a dye and in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to help blood flow and reduce swelling and pain. Some chemicals from red sappan wood can help with allergies, inflammation, and fight certain viruses. Also, its extracts can kill certain bacteria. Surprisingly, these extracts can also help skin wounds to heal faster.

Marigold

Marigold is a plant often used to treat skin issues like wounds, burns, and rashes. It has many helpful properties like reducing inflammation, fighting bacteria and viruses, and possibly even fighting cancer. It's not entirely clear how it helps wounds heal, but it seems to encourage the growth of skin cells.

Green

Tea Green tea is popular in Asia for its health benefits. It can act as an antioxidant, fight inflammation, and even help with weight loss and heart health. One of its main compounds, EGCG, seems to help skin by promoting the growth of healthy cells and reducing scarring. It also helps with blood vessel growth, which is important for healing wounds.

Safflower

Safflower seeds are used to make cooking oil and also have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for blood problems. Recent studies show it has many health benefits like improving blood flow, fighting inflammation, and even possibly preventing cancer. It also has some benefits for skin, like helping wounds heal faster.

Silver

Cock's Comb Silver cock's comb is used in traditional medicine for various skin issues. Its leaves have antioxidants and other helpful properties that can protect the liver, help with diabetes, and fight infections. Some research shows it can help wounds heal faster too.

Asiatic

Pennywort Asiatic pennywort has been used for a long time to help wounds heal. Studies show that extracts from this plant can improve healing in both rats and guinea pigs. It seems to help by increasing collagen, which is important for skin health.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a common spice known for its flavor, but it also has some health benefits. It can improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and even help with diabetes. Some compounds in cinnamon can also help wounds heal by promoting the growth of new blood vessels.

Myrrh

Myrrh is a resin with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It's been used for a variety of health issues and can help with pain and infections. Some studies suggest it can also help wounds heal faster.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice often used in cooking and traditional medicine. It has many health benefits, including reducing inflammation and possibly preventing cancer. It also seems to help wounds heal faster by encouraging the growth of healthy skin cells.

Genkwa

Genkwa is a plant used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for various health issues. It contains compounds that can reduce inflammation, fight cancer, and regulate the immune system. Some research suggests it can also help wounds heal faster.

St. Thomas Bean

St. Thomas bean is a vine found in tropical forests. Its bark and seeds have compounds that can reduce pain, kill bacteria, and even fight cancer. Some studies suggest it can help wounds heal faster too.

Hibiscus

Hibiscus is a shrub native to tropical Asia. Its flowers and leaves are used in traditional medicine for hair growth and fertility. Studies show that extracts from hibiscus can also help wounds heal faster by reducing inflammation and promoting the growth of healthy skin cells.

Ganoderma lucidum:

It's a type of mushroom called lingzhi. People in China, Korea, and Japan think it can make them live longer. It's used in traditional medicine to make the immune system stronger. Some studies show it might help with fighting infections, reducing inflammation, protecting the heart, and lowering cholesterol. It's also been linked to reducing tumors, viruses, and high blood pressure in some people. However, more research is needed to be sure.

Ligusticum striatum:

This is a plant root used in traditional medicine to help with heart and brain health, and women's health. It contains many chemicals that can affect the body.

Lonicera japonica:

Also known as honeysuckle, this plant has been used for a long time in Asia to treat infections. It's been studied and found to have many health benefits like fighting inflammation, protecting the liver, and helping wounds heal faster.

Paeonia suffruticosa:

This plant's roots are used in traditional medicine for various health problems. Studies suggest it has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. It's also used to help heal wounds.

Panax ginseng:

This plant is popular in Asia for its supposed ability to improve memory, boost immunity, and reduce fatigue. Research suggests it may also help with heart health, inflammation, and fighting cancer.

Panax notoginseng:

Another type of ginseng used in traditional medicine. It might help stop bleeding, reduce swelling and pain, and has many other health benefits.

Polygonum cuspidatum:

Its roots are used in traditional medicine for various illnesses. Studies show it has anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and wound-healing properties.

Lithospermum erythrorhizon:

This plant's root has many health benefits like fighting inflammation and cancer. It's also been studied for its potential to heal scars.

Rheum officinale:

Also known as Chinese rhubarb, this plant's roots are used for constipation and other health issues. It contains substances that fight bacteria, reduce inflammation, and help wounds heal faster.

Rhodiola imbricata:

A plant found in high altitudes. It contains substances that might help with wound healing, boost the immune system, and protect the liver and heart.

Red Sage (Salvia miltiorrhiza)

Red sage is a plant whose root is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to treat diseases related to the brain and heart, like stroke and heart disease. It has been shown to help reduce tissue damage and improve survival after certain surgeries. Some chemicals in red sage act as antioxidants, protecting cells from damage. It also seems to be good for the liver and brain, fights infections, reduces inflammation, and may help fight cancer. The main benefit seems to be in protecting the heart by helping blood vessels grow and reducing damage during heart injuries. Certain extracts from red sage help skin cells grow and produce collagen, which is good for healing wounds.

Great Burnet (Sanguisorba officinalis)

Great burnet is a plant used traditionally to stop bleeding and treat skin problems. It has substances that protect against cell damage, boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and fight allergies. It's used for various skin issues like burns, eczema, and allergic reactions. Extracts from this plant can stop certain cells from releasing chemicals that cause inflammation. In studies on mice, it helped wounds heal faster and increased the production of substances needed for healing.

Ku Shen (Sophora flavescens)

Ku Shen is a plant used for heart, liver, and skin problems. Studies show it may fight cancer, bacteria, viruses, and inflammation, and help with itching. It might also be used to lighten skin and treat hair loss. In one study, a mixture of Ku Shen and other herbs helped reduce ulcers in rats and decreased inflammation.

Ba Dou (Stemona tuberosa)

Ba Dou is a plant used to kill insects and treat skin infections. It has chemicals that reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. Some of these chemicals also help wounds heal by promoting cell growth.

Creeping Oxeye (Wedelia trilobata)

Creeping oxeye is a plant used to treat pain, wounds, and arthritis. One of its components protects nerve cells and fights cancer and inflammation. In tests, extracts from this plant helped skin cells grow and killed certain bacteria.

Sichuan Pepper (Zanthoxylum bungeanum)

Sichuan pepper is a plant used for pain relief and skin problems. It has many different chemicals that have various effects, like reducing pain, fighting cancer, and protecting against cell damage. The outer part of the fruit is used in traditional medicine for oils and powders. Extracts from this plant are also used to treat skin issues like acne and eczema. They may also help reduce wrinkles when applied to the skin. Additionally, the plant's oils might help other medications pass through the skin.

Conclusion

For a long time, plants have been used to treat injuries and sickness. People have learned to use plants for medicine over thousands of years. Many of these traditional medicines have been found to help, although not all have been tested in scientific studies. Surprisingly, some plants make similar chemicals, even if they're not related. These chemicals can target the same things in our bodies that help wounds heal.

We summarized information about these medicinal plants in a table. Although we have experimental evidence for each plant, we haven't confirmed exactly how each one works. However, we know some specific chemicals from certain plants, like Aloe vera and Turmeric, are good for healing wounds. These plants are well-known in many places around the world for their medicinal properties.

DHUPI (JUNIPERUS RECURVA)

EKLEBIR (LOBELIA PYRAMIDALIS)

GAMDOL (BRACHYCORYTHIS OBCORDATA)

GHODTAPRE (CENTELLA ASIATICA)

GHUCHI CHYAU (MORCHELLA ESCULENTA)

GURJO (TINOSPORA SINENSIS)

HALEDO (CURCUMA ANGUSTIFOLIA)

HARCHUR (VISCUM ARTICULATUM)

INDRAYANI (Trichosanthes tricuspidata )

JHYAU (PARMELIA NEPALENSIS)

JHYAU (PARMELIA TINCTORIUM)

JHYAU (USNEA THOMSONII)