Abstract

NATURAL POLYMER BASED HYDROGEL CONTAINING AGERATUM CONYZOIDES

Shivani Agrahari* and Dr. N. Trilochana

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Abstract

Natural polymer-based hydrogels containing Ageratum conyzoides extract have been developed for topical applications, particularly targeting wound healing and antibacterial therapy. In these formulations, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), a water-soluble anionic natural polymer, is commonly used as the gel matrix due to its viscosity-enhancing and biocompatible properties. The hydrogel incorporates Ageratum conyzoides extract, which is rich in bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and phenolics, known for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities. The resulting hydrogel demonstrates favorable physical stability, suitable pH (4.5–6.5), and viscosity (2000–5000 cPs), making it appropriate for skin application. In vitro studies reveal that the hydrogel exhibits significant antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, with inhibition zones averaging 20.3 mm, and maintains its organoleptic properties over extended storage. These findings suggest that natural polymerbased hydrogels containing Ageratum conyzoides extract are romising candidates for the development of effective, stable, and biocompatible wound care products.

Keywords: Ageratum conyzoides, Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Activities.