Konjac glucomannan: A review of structure, physicochemical properties, and wound dressing applications

Abstract Natural bio‐based materials used in wound dressings have been continuously developed in recent years, and have certain advantages in water retention, biocompatibility, and therapeutic properties. Konjac glucomannan (KGM) is a kind of plant polysaccharide with good cell compatibility and gel properties. Various gels obtained by modification of KGM through physical and chemical methods have great application potential in wound excipients. In the past few years, various KGM‐based wound barrier materials such as hydrogels, xerogel, microspheres, films, and fibers have been continuously researched and developed. The combination of KGM and other polymers can improve the problem of poor mechanical properties and give it new functional properties, which is beneficial to the moisturizing of the wound surface and the release of drugs to promote wound healing. This article reviews the physicochemical properties of KGM and the latest developments in KGM‐based composite gels, reveals the relationship between molecules in KGM‐based composite gels, and looks forward to the research and development prospects of KGM‐based composites in wound dressings.