From Plant to Pill: Exploring Phytosome Preparation Techniques and Their Therapeutic Potential

Phytosomes are advanced lipid-based vesicular systems designed to enhance the solubility, permeability, and bioavailability of plant-derived phytoconstituents. These nanocarriers overcome the limitations of traditional herbal delivery by forming lipid-compatible complexes, especially suitable for polyphenolic compounds like flavonoids. Various preparation techniques such as solvent evaporation, anti-solvent precipitation, thin film hydration, freeze-drying, and emerging technologies like spray-drying and supercritical fluid methods are employed to formulate phytosomes. Each method significantly influences the physicochemical and biological performance of the final product. This review provides an in-depth exploration of phytosome preparation methods, along with their mechanisms, advantages, and challenges, and includes comparative insights with other nanocarrier systems like liposomes and niosomes. Emphasis is placed on process optimization, clinical relevance, and integration of topical and oral phytosome applications.