Antimicrobial Activity of Essential Oils for Potential Use as Wound Dressing Material Additives

Abstract

Objective: The use of natural products in wound care has a long history, with herbal extracts and aromatic oils offering therapeutic benefits such as antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. This study investigated the antimi, crobial efficacy of essential oils (tea tree, thyme, and cinnamon) incorporated into non,woven, hypoallergenic, and sterile wound dressings. Materials and Methods: The antimicrobial activity of tea tree, thyme, and cinnamon oils was evaluated using minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal/fungicidal concentration (MBC/MFC) tests. After application of the MBC doses determined in our study to the wound dressing and gauze, the samples were evaluated using a stepwise qualitative to quantitative experimental design to assess the static and cidal effects. Results: Tea tree oil showed the highest MIC/MBC values (1,3 mg/mL), while thyme and cinnamon oils showed efficacy at lower concentrations (0.25 mg/mL) against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. In addition, the essential oils showed significant antifungal activity against Candida albicans at lower concentrations than bacteria. The impregnated dressings exhibited strong antimicrobial properties with a 99.99% (4 log) reduction in microbial growth, confirming the potential of essential oils as viable, biocompatible alternatives to traditional chemical agents in wound healing applications. Conclusion: These findings highlight the benefits of natural essential oils in improving wound care while minimising the risk of toxicity and resistance associated with chemical treatments. In conclusion, based on the results of our study, wound dressings with natural essential oils used to reduce the risk of infection and indirectly promote wound healing can reduce healing time and improve patient quality of life in a cost,effective care setting.

Keywords

• Aromatic oils
• Bioactive compounds
• Infection control
• Natural antimicrobial agents
• Phytochemicals

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