Phytosome: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Phytoconstituents with minimal unwanted effects provide phytomedicine a viable therapeutic alternative. Reduced bioavailability due to substantial molecular size, inadequate lipid solubility, and instability of bioactive components impedes its efficacy. Various techniques have been used to develop phytochemical carrier systems that enhance bioavailability. Phytosomes have lately emerged as appealing lipid-based carriers for botanical pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. A novel pharmaceutical delivery system known as phytosome wraps bioactive compounds inside phospholipid molecules, primarily phosphatidylcholine. Phytosomes, as phyto-phospholipid complexes, enhance targeted drug delivery, bioavailability, stability, pharmacological efficacy, and the protection of bioactive molecules against chemical and physical degradation. Phytosomes are extensively used and recognized by the scientific community for their efficacy and manufacturing simplicity. This study examines phytosome technology, including its structural components, formulation techniques, optimization, characterization, and advantages and disadvantages. Recent studies and commercially available phytosome-based products are also examined. In summary, phytosome technology significantly enhances the bioavailability of plant extracts and phytochemicals using established processing and testing methodologies.

Keywords: Phytomedicine; Innovative drug delivery system; Phytosome; Liposome; Bioavailability; Phytochemicals; Phosphatidylcholine; Thin layer hydration method; Biodegradable; Supercritical anti-solvent precipitation.