Phytosome Technology: A Novel Breakthrough for the Health Challenges

Cureus. 2024 Aug 30;16(8):e68180. doi: 10.7759/cureus.68180. eCollection 2024 Aug.

Abstract

Phytochemicals are compounds found in plants that have various biological activities and health benefits. Although phytochemicals have diverse therapeutic applications, they confront several challenges, such as poor solubility, instability, and low bioavailability. Phytosomes are used to overcome those challenges. The phytosome is a complex of phytochemicals and phospholipids that transports the drug to the target site, thereby increasing phytochemical absorption and bioavailability. The present study focuses on phytosome preparation methods and evaluation parameters, as well as the role of phytosomes in various ailments such as COVID-19, pulmonary fibrosis, asthma, migraine, arthritis, obesity, neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cancer, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, hyperlipidemic, and antimicrobial, which demonstrates phytosome complexes are more potent when compared to free extracts. Due to poor absorption and metabolism, phytoconstituents may not be effective in their free form. Phytosomes make phytoconstituents more bioavailable, stable, and effective. It also discusses recent formulations of phytosomes that can act as an effective or alternative regimen for various health conditions.

Keywords: bioavailability; herbosomes; phospholipids; phytosomes; target drug delivery.

Publication types

  • Review