Microneedle-Assisted Delivery of Herbal Actives: Innovations and Therapeutic Potential
摘要
Transdermal drug delivery systems have shown significant promise in managing various skin conditions through methods, such as hypodermic needles, sprays, and patches. However, the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin, poses a major challenge by limiting the penetration of therapeutic agents. Microneedle (MN) technology has emerged as an innovative solution to this problem, offering a minimally invasive approach that enhances drug absorption by bypassing this natural barrier and improving bioavailability. This review focuses on the advancements in microneedle-assisted delivery systems, particularly highlighting the incorporation of herbal actives, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and polyphenols. These phytoconstituents are widely recognized for their therapeutic potential in treating skin disorders. Herbal-based microneedles provide a novel and patient-friendly alternative to conventional injections, ensuring effective delivery with minimal damage to underlying tissues. By drawing insights from a wide range of recent studies and database searches, this review underscores the growing therapeutic and cosmetic potential of herbal-loaded microneedles. The findings suggest that this approach could play a transformative role in future dermatological treatments and skincare innovations.
Graphical Abstract