ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on natural fibers and their use in medicine. The natural fiber-based composites are used in tissue engineering, drug delivery, dentistry, wound healing, and antibacterial application. Biocomposites have revolutionized the different fields of human life. Natural fibers are classified into two main groups: plant and animal based. Mineral-based fibers also form a substantial part of natural fibers. Natural fiber-based composites have advantage over glass fiber composites in producing less pollution than synthetic polymer matrix and less weight resulting in less fuel consumption for the automotive industry. Sisal fibers are used in polymers of thermoplastics, thermosets, and rubber composites. Natural fiber-based biocomposites are environment friendly, used in military applications, transportation, and industrial construction, and are regaining the attention that was once shifted to synthetic products. Natural fibers are biocompatible and biodegradable, so natural fiber-based biocomposites are better choice when utilized for medical applications.
