Abstract: The subject invention pertains to methods and compositions for wound treatment. The methods and compositions provide for promoting and accelerating wound healing; provide for inhibition of microbial infection; provide for a protective scab-like covering on a wound; and/or for arresting the flow of blood or body fluids from an open wound. The methods and compositions can be used to increase granulation and epithelialization in a wound. In one embodiment, a substantially anhydrous compound of a salt ferrate and a cation exchange material is provided. Compositions of the invention can also include silver compounds. In use, compositions of the invention are preferably applied as a dry dressing to an exuding chronic wound site. If the chronic wound site is dry, the wound site may be wetted with a suitable liquid or aqueous media prior to applying the dressing in dry form.