Red Ivy Plant Developed into a nanotech Wound-Healing Pad

A novel wound-healing pad developed by scientists at the Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden Research Institute (JNTBGRI) in Kerala with the assistance of nanotechnology and a bioactive compound of the red ivy plant (Strobilanthes alternata) was created. This complex product is a combination of natural and synthetic ingredients to provide effective and safe wound care.

Key Discovery: Acteoside

Scientists, firstly, found an effective pharmacological compound called acteoside in the red ivy plant. Being one of the healing components, acteoside is an inherent part of the pad, albeit, it had never been linked to this species.

Pad Design and Composition

The wound pad has a multi-layered architecture with a thin electro-spun nanofibre layer consisting of non-toxic biodegradable polymers that are certified by the FDA. This design enables the best exchange of gasses, which keeps the wound in the ventilated position. It is impregnated with acteoside (0.2%), the antibiotic neomycin sulfate to avoid infection.

Traditional Usage and Botanical Profiles.

The red ivy (Strobilanthes alternata) or locally referred to as murikooti pacha is a herbaceous plant that is localized in the tropics with dark green leaves and purple stems. It has centuries of Ayurvedic medicine experience, and is known as Vranaropani or "wound healer" and is traditionally used to treat wounds and cuts.

Geographical Spread

The plant is indigenous to tropical Asia, such as India, Malaysia, Indonesia, China and Japan. In Indonesia, it is consumed to prevent bleeding, stimulate urination and combat infections. It is also extensively cultivated as an ornament in the U.S. and in some cases in the U.K.

Wound Care Nanotechnology.

The emerging aspect of nanotechnology in improving phytomedicine is reflected by this development. Electro-spinning is used to make nanofibres which mimic natural tissue, enhancing drug delivery, healing faster, and mitigating the risk of infections. The JNTBGRI project has been a great stride ahead towards integrating ancient botanical science and the use of nanotechnology.