Polyvinyl Alcohol/Chitosan/Gelatin Hydrogel incorporated with betel leaves for enhanced wound care management

Abstract

In the rapidly advancing medical field, there is a significant demand for efficient, safe, and cost-effective wound healing solutions that address both infection control and tissue regeneration. Traditional wound dressings often fall short in managing complex wounds, particularly those susceptible to microbial contamination or inflammation. For these critical healthcare needs, the development of innovative material systems that facilitate rapid wound recovery is essential. This research explores the potential of a composite biomaterial based on Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA), Chitosan, and Gelatin—three biocompatible and biodegradable polymers known for their unique physicochemical and biological properties. The blend is further enhanced by incorporating betel leaf extract, a natural antibacterial agent widely used in traditional medicine in Southeast Asia, including Vietnam. The synergistic combination of these components aims to create an optimized wound dressing that promotes faster healing, moisture retention, reduced inflammation, and antimicrobial protection. Chitosan contributes to hemostatic activity and antimicrobial resistance, Gelatin supports cellular adhesion and proliferation, while PVA improves structural integrity and flexibility. Betel leaf extract, rich in bioactive compounds like chavicol and eugenol, imparts potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. A series of formulations were prepared by varying the ratios of PVA, Chitosan, and Gelatin, and introducing different concentrations of betel leaf extract to evaluate mechanical properties, swelling behavior, degradation rate, and antibacterial activity. Surface morphology was examined using digital microscopy to assess homogeneity and distribution of betel particles. Among all combinations, a 2:1:1 ratio of PVA/Chitosan/Gelatin with 15% betel leaf content exhibited the most favorable characteristics. This study highlights the potential of using sustainable, natural resources to develop advanced wound dressings that are accessible, effective, and environmentally friendly, offering promising applications in biomedical and clinical settings.