Background: Complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) are widely used by the general public. Natural products including plant-derived extracts (phytochemicals) and naturally derived substances, such as honey, are an important component of CAM. Here, we review the evidence for their use in wound care.
The problem: Wound healing is complex and disruption of this process can lead to considerable morbidity, including chronic wounds, infection, and scarring. Natural products have a long history of use in wound care, but there are only a few rigorous studies. With the growing interest in the use of natural products and the belief that they are safer than standard therapies, it is vital to understand the current knowledge of their efficacy and side effects.
Basic/clinical science advances: Natural products possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, angiogenic, and cell synthesis-modulating components among many others. However, this complex composition of chemicals may increase the risk for irritant or allergic side effects.
Clinical care relevance: Natural products can be much cheaper than conventional treatments, but further study is needed to better understand their efficacy. The type of wound and the potential for side effects need to be carefully considered when choosing a treatment.
Conclusion: The research to date is supportive of the use of natural products in wound care. Patients need to be cautioned of potential side effects. Collaborative research between allopathic medicine and medical systems that frequently employ phytochemicals and naturally derived substances, such as Ayurveda and naturopathy, will provide a better understanding of how to integrate natural products into wound care.