Next-Generation Herbal Drug Delivery Systems: Integrating Phytosomes, Green Nanoparticles, Stimuli-Responsive Hydrogels and Natural Polymers
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64882/ijrt.v12.i4.1779Keywords:
Herbal drug delivery; Phytosomes; Green nanoparticles; Stimuli-responsive hydrogels; Natural polymers; Phytoconstituents; Nanomedicine; Controlled release; Bioavailability; Green synthesis.Abstract
The increasing recognition of the therapeutic potential of plant-derived bioactive compounds has stimulated considerable interest in advanced herbal drug delivery systems. However, poor aqueous solubility, chemical instability, limited membrane permeability, rapid metabolism and inadequate bioavailability continue to restrict the effective pharmaceutical utilisation of many phytoconstituents. The present research examines next-generation delivery approaches integrating phytosomes, green-synthesised nanoparticles, stimuli-responsive hydrogels and natural polymers to address these limitations. bioavailability enhancement, controlled release, biocompatibility, sustainability and translational challenges. The analysis indicates that phytosomes can improve phytochemical–phospholipid interactions and membrane affinity, whereas green nanoparticles provide opportunities for nanoscale transport, enhanced protection and environmentally compatible synthesis. Stimuli-responsive hydrogels offer controlled and physiologically regulated release, while natural polymers such as chitosan, alginate and cellulose derivatives provide biodegradable and biocompatible matrices. Their integration may generate multifunctional delivery platforms capable of addressing several barriers simultaneously. Nevertheless, challenges concerning herbal raw-material standardisation, formulation stability, nanoparticle safety, reproducibility, scale-up and regulatory acceptance remain significant. The findings suggest that strategic integration of these technologies represents a promising direction for improving the therapeutic efficiency, predictability and controlled delivery of herbal medicines.
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