Essential oils in biomedical applications: Recent progress and future opportunities

Ünalan I, Boccaccini AR (2021)


Publication Type: Journal article, Review article

Publication year: 2021

Journal

Book Volume: 17

Article Number: 100261

DOI: 10.1016/j.cobme.2021.100261

Abstract

The use of essential oils (EOs) combined with engineered biomaterials has been continuously growing. Research has focused on counteracting drawbacks of EOs such as volatility, relative low stability, and high sensitivity to environmental factors, in addition to investigating biological effects of EOs. This review discusses recent developments in the use of EOs in biomedical applications, such as antibacterial materials, drug delivery systems, and wound healing. Furthermore, we summarize not only the antibacterial and biological activities of biomaterial–EO combinations, but also discuss the effects of EOs on physical, thermal, and mechanical properties of biomaterials, which distinguishes this review from previous similar articles. EOs discussed are cinnamon, clove, and peppermint. Results show that the incorporation of EOs in engineered biomaterials has led to improved antibacterial activity, biocompatibility, and wound healing in several systems. Biomaterial–EO combinations represent a promising alternative for a new generation of hybrid biomedical systems incorporating natural medicinal compounds in engineered biomaterials.

Authors with CRIS profile

How to cite

APA:

Ünalan, I., & Boccaccini, A.R. (2021). Essential oils in biomedical applications: Recent progress and future opportunities. Current Opinion in Biomedical Engineering, 17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cobme.2021.100261

MLA:

Ünalan, Irem, and Aldo R. Boccaccini. "Essential oils in biomedical applications: Recent progress and future opportunities." Current Opinion in Biomedical Engineering 17 (2021).

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