ABSTRACT:
This study developed and evaluated a novel nanosponge-based gel formulation containing Tridax procumbens extract for enhanced wound healing combining traditional herbal medicine with nanotechnology. Preformulation studies confirmed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins and glycosides in the extract with quercetin identified as a key component. Nanosponges were prepared using the quasi-emulsion solvent diffusion method with ethyl cellulose as the polymer and polyvinyl alcohol as a stabilizer. The optimized formulation (batch N4) demonstrated a production yield of 81.06%, entrapment efficiency of 86.76% and mean particle size of 160.5 nm. Zeta potential (-48.6mV) indicated good stability and Scanning Electron Microscopy confirmed the spherical and porous nature of the nanosponges. The nanosponges were incorporated into a carbopol-based gel resulting in a topical formulation with appropriate physical properties (pH 6.74). In vitro drug release studies showed sustained release over 8 hours, with 88.82% cumulative release. In vivo wound healing studies in Wistar albino rats demonstrated superior efficacy of the Tridax procumbens nanosponges gel compared to control and standard treatments. The test formulation achieved 98.07% wound closure by day 15 significantly outperforming the standard treatment (88.89%) and control (77.73%). These results highlight the potential of nanosponge technology in improving the delivery and efficacy of herbal extracts for wound healing. The developed formulation successfully combines the wound healing properties of Tridax procumbens with the advantages of nanosponges.