https://news.northwestern.edu/stories/2024/august/new-biomat...

> The new biomaterial comprises two components: a bioactive peptide that binds to transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGFb-1) — an essential protein for cartilage growth and maintenance — and modified hyaluronic acid, a natural polysaccharide present in cartilage and the lubricating synovial fluid in joints.

and application:

> the new material could be applied to joints during open-joint or arthroscopic surgeries. The current standard of care is microfracture surgery, during which surgeons create tiny fractures in the underlying bone to induce new cartilage growth.

Anecdotally and somewhat related: as blade fighting was common in those days, Chinese surgeons (pre-cultural revolution) would allegedly wrap severed tendons with the leaves of some herb to some effect. Not sure if it was bletilla striata.