Formulation and Evaluation of a Carbopol-based Calendula officinalis Hydrogel for Enhanced Wound Healing
Jagdish Kumar, Nakul Gupta, Sapna Tripathi, Shreyasi Samant, Sudhir AroraIntroduction:
The study aimed to develop and evaluate hydrogel formulations loaded with Calendula officinalis extract for wound healing applications. The primary objective was to identify the optimal extract concentration that provides effective wound treatment while maintaining physicochemical stability, sustained drug release, and compatibility with skin.
Methods:
Four hydrogel formulations were prepared with different concentrations of Calendula officinalis extract (1%, 3%, 5%, and 7%). Each formulation underwent comprehensive evaluations including physicochemical characterization (pH, viscosity), drug content measurement, permeability testing, drug release profile analysis, and stability studies. These parameters were used to determine which formulation offered the most suitable properties for clinical wound healing applications.
Results:
The 5% Calendula officinalis hydrogel showed the most favorable performance. It exhibited a skin-compatible pH of 7.07, viscosity of 58.2 CPS for optimal application, and permeability of 43.6%. The drug release study demonstrated 82% release of active compound over 7 hours, indicating sustained therapeutic levels at the wound site. Stability studies confirmed consistent color, odor, and texture across all formulations.
Discussion:
Lower concentrations (1% and 3%) demonstrated reduced drug release and permeability, while the 7% formulation, although higher in drug content, showed decreased permeability and potential application limitations. The balance of drug release, stability, and compatibility in the 5% hydrogel highlighted its superiority as a wound-healing agent. The formulation effectively leverages the natural anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties of Calendula officinalis through a hydrogel delivery system.
conclusion:
In conclusion, the 5
Conclusion:
Among the four tested formulations, the 5% Calendula officinalis-loaded hydrogel was identified as the most effective. It combined ideal physicochemical properties, sustained drug release, and stability, making it a promising candidate for wound healing applications. This optimized formulation provides a safe, efficient, and innovative natural therapy for enhancing wound management.