A team of scientists at the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST) in Assam have developed an eco-friendly and low-cost wound dressing material using banana fibres. The researchers combined banana fibres with biopolymers to create a multifunctional patch with excellent mechanical strength and antioxidant properties. The patch was loaded with an extract from the Vitex negundo L. plant, showcasing in vitro drug release and antibacterial capabilities.
Prof. Devasish Chowdhury and Prof. (Retd) Rajlakshmi Devi led the team in utilizing banana pseudostems, typically discarded post-harvest, to create this innovative dressing material. The materials used are natural and locally available, making the manufacturing process simple, cost-effective, and non-toxic. Prof. Chowdhury stated, “This investigation opens the door to a new era in wound healing, offering a low-cost, reliable, and environmentally friendly alternative.”
The banana fibre-biopolymer composite dressing, as detailed in a study published in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, could revolutionize wound care with broad applications and a positive impact on health and the environment. The sustainable solution not only benefits wound care but also has the potential to assist farmers and reduce environmental impact. The team’s research signifies a significant step forward in biomedical research and offers promising prospects for the future of wound care.
