Considerations for determining if a natural product is an effective wound-healing agent.
Many research groups are examining natural products for their vulnerary activity. On the basis of the countless years of folklore and clinical observations, these preparations are being fractionated and applied to wounds in a variety of animal species. Despite this work, the number of agents that have documented ability to enhance wound healing is minimal. This article provides a brief review of some of the major historical milestones in wound care and provides a framework for studying plant products so as to achieve statistically significant results in biologically important models of healing. Only with the use of reference standards, data from appropriate animal models, and human trials can we begin to mine the great potential of these natural products.
Lindblad
William J
WJ
Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA. William.lindblad@mcphs.edu
D001691:Biological Therapy / Q000266:history; D004341:Drug Evaluation / Q000379:methods*; D049668:History, 15th Century; D049669:History, 16th Century; D049670:History, 17th Century; D049671:History, 18th Century; D049672:History, 19th Century; D049690:History, Ancient; D049691:History, Medieval; D006801:Humans; D008519:Medicine, Traditional / Q000266:history; D008517:Phytotherapy / Q000266:history; D014945:Wound Healing; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000188:drug therapy*