Exploring the Role of Phytoconstituents in Nanocarrier-Based Drug Delivery Systems: A Pharmacognostic Perspective

Abstract

This review highlights the emerging role of nanotechnology in enhancing the therapeutic potential of phytoconstituents through advanced nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems. Phytochemicals possess significant pharmacological activities but are often limited by poor solubility, instability, and low bioavailability. The incorporation of nanotechnology into pharmacognosy has addressed these challenges by providing novel delivery platforms such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, and dendrimers. These nanocarriers improve drug solubility, protect bioactive compounds from degradation, and enable controlled and targeted release, minimizing systemic toxicity. The use of nanocarriers also aligns with the principles of green chemistry by employing biodegradable materials and eco-friendly synthesis methods. Moreover, surface modification and ligand conjugation have opened new avenues for site-specific delivery, especially in cancer and inflammatory disorders. This review also discusses recent advancements, formulation approaches, characterization techniques, and biological evaluations associated with phytoconstituent-loaded nanocarriers. The integration of nanotechnology and pharmacognosy not only enhances therapeutic efficacy but also modernizes traditional herbal medicine into scientifically validated and patient-compliant systems. Prospects focus on the development of multifunctional and stimulus-responsive nanocarriers, combining therapeutic and diagnostic applications for personalized phytomedicine.