Synthesis and Characterization of Honey-Pectin Hydrogel: Exploring Potential Applications in Wound Healing

Abstract

Hydrogels have garnered considerable interest as dynamic platforms for wound healing due to their ability to maintain a moist environment and promote tissue regeneration. This study explores the synthesis and characterization of honey-pectin hydrogels, leveraging the natural healing properties of honey combined with the biocompatibility of pectin. Employing a solution casting method, hydrogels with varied honey concentrations were prepared and examined to ascertain their suitability for wound care applications. The hydrogels were subjected to a series of characterization techniques including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Swelling Tests, and Hydrogel Dehydration Rate Testing (HDRT) analyses. The SEM and FTIR results demonstrated that the inclusion of honey not only enhanced the structural integrity but also enriched the chemical stability of the hydrogels. Swelling tests revealed that the hydrogels could effectively absorb and retain moisture, a crucial function for preventing wound desiccation. Additionally, the HDRT results demonstrated that the hydrogels adequately managed moisture release, a critical factor in preventing maceration while supporting natural healing processes; with the dehydration rate ranged from 37.24 to 50.02 g/m2/h and 11.03 to 31.58 g/m2/h, for the air-dried and the vacuum-dried hydrogels, respectively. This study highlights the potential of honey-pectin hydrogels as effective wound dressings that can be tailored to meet specific clinical requirements and sets the stage for further development and clinical testing to enhance their therapeutic efficacy and usability in medical applications.