Exploring The Role of Curcumin and Nanoformulations in the Treatment of Wound Healing

Abstract

Wound healing is a crucial physiological process necessary for restoring skin integrity following trauma. This process involves three essential stages: hemostasis/inflammatory, proliferative, and remodeling. Extensive experimental studies and preclinical models have provided significant insights into the mechanisms underlying wound healing. Curcumin (C₂₁H₂₀O₆), the primary curcuminoid derived from Curcuma longa, a plant from the Zingiberaceae family, has been widely used in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. It is a popular herbal supplement, frequently utilized as a dietary ingredient, cosmetic additive, and coloring agent. Curcuma longa is rich in curcuminoids, which exhibit notable therapeutic properties. In drug delivery, nano-based carriers such as solid lipid nanoparticles, nano emulsions, and liposomes are preferred due to their high drug-loading capacity, stability, and biocompatibility. This review focuses on understanding the mechanism and types of wounds, the wound healing process, and the significant impact of nanocarriers in wound healing. Additionally, it highlights the accelerated wound healing effects of curcumin at various stages of the natural healing process.