Synthesize, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of a chitosan xerogel film with Nigella Sativa extract

The prevalence rates of microbial infections in wounds present a medical challenge, as damaged skin is inherently more susceptible to colonization/infection by pathogens. Deep eutectic solvents are a type of environmentally friendly cost-effective, and efficient solvent used in the extraction of bioactive compounds from plant materials. The study investigates the preparation of a xerogel formulation incorporating Nigella sativa extract, utilizing deep eutectic solvents that comprise chitosan and gallic acid-grafted gelatin, with the potential to enhance wound healing through antimicrobial and antioxidant actions. The xerogel has been evaluated for physicochemical characteristics by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and different chemical analyses. Mechanical properties of the film has confirmed that this formulation would be suitable for dressing wounds that require conformability. It is indicated from the disk diffusion test that the film showed efficacy in inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans. Preliminary studies have shown this formulation has structural integrity, a cell-friendly nature, is remarkably antioxidant-active, and exhibited antimicrobial activity hence possibly application in pharmaceutical fields. The results will add to our understanding of how DES can effectively be used in enhancing the bioactivity of natural extracts in polymeric matrices and help pave a way for advanced applications in health-related products.