A Comprehensive Survey on Novel Methods in Herbal Drug Delivery Systems

Abstract

Phytomedicines have been used by humans worldwide since ancient times. However, such medicines suffer from some drawbacks, such as toxicity, problems of stability, low bioavailability and compliance with patients. Different novel drug delivery systems (NDDS) such as phytosomes, ethosomes, transfersomes, herbal transdermal patches, nanoparticles and biphasic emulsions are used today to reduce these problems. Using these advanced techniques, it is possible to protect against toxicity, improve safety, improve the bioavailability of herbal formulations, and protect against physical and chemical degradation. Increased patient compliance, continuous release and selective action of plant actives and extracts are provided by these techniques. This review offers details on different novel approaches used to enhance the safety and efficacy of phytomedicines, the type of active ingredients, the biological activity and the application of novel formulations. The oldest form of health care known to mankind is herbal drugs. Herbal medicines have been described by the World Health Organization (WHO) as finished, labelled medicinal products containing active ingredients, aerial or underground sections of a plant or other material or combination of plants. The WHO estimates that 80% of the world's population uses herbal medicine for primary health care at present.