Nanotechnology-Based Formulation Approaches in Phytopharmaceuticals

Phytopharmaceuticals have been widely used since ancient times for the treatment of various diseases and are appreciated by medical experts and patients. The advancement of phytochemical and phytopharmacological sciences has provided the composition and biological activities of several medicinal plant products. The effectiveness of many species of medicinal plants depends on the availability of active compounds to the targeted organ. However, the therapeutic efficacy of most of the biologically active constituents from medicinal plants has been affected by their poor solubility, low absorption, permeability, and lack of targeting potential. Some extracts are not used clinically due to these obstacles. In recent years, nanotechnology-based approaches have been used to improve the therapeutic efficacy and efficiency of herbal medicine. The objective of this chapter is to highlight nanotechnology systems as an innovative drug delivery system in herbal medicines to enhance the therapeutic effects and bioavailability of naturally occurring drugs.