Enhancing bioavailability with phytosometechnology: Approaches to formulation,characterization, and pharmacologicalassessment

Abstract

Phytosomes are advanced herbal drug delivery systems designed to improve the bioavailability, stability,
and therapeutic efficacy of plant?based phytoconstituents. Many herbal compounds, particularly polyphenols
and flavonoids, suffer from low absorption due to poor lipid solubility, large molecular size, and extensive
first-pass metabolism. Phytosome technology overcomes these limitations by forming a phospholipid–
phytoconstituent complex, which enhances membrane permeability and gastrointestinal uptake. This review
provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of phytosome technology, formulation strategies, key
phospholipids used, and optimization parameters. Various characterization techniques – including fourier
transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy/transmission
electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, zeta potential analysis, particle size distribution, and entrapment
efficiency – are discussed in detail. The article further highlights the pharmacokinetic and pharmacological
advantages of phytosomes, featuring recent studies on antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective,
anticancer, and neuroprotective activities. Overall, phytosomes represent a promising platform for improving
the therapeutic potential of herbal bioactives, supporting their application in modern pharmaceutical and
nutraceutical formulations.