Abstract

NANOSTRUCTURED LIPID CARRIERS IN ENHANCING BIOAVAILABILITY OF HERBAL EXTRACTS: A PHARMACOGNOSTIC PERSPECTIVE

Amol Anil Ambekar*, Prajakta Balasaheb Rote, Chaitali Shantaram Dawange, Dr. Jitendra Yadav Nehte and Dr. Rajendra Sudhakar Bhambar

Abstract

Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) are advanced drug delivery systems designed to enhance the bioavailability and efficacy of herbal extracts, overcoming inherent challenges such as poor solubility and stability. By encapsulating bioactive herbal constituents within lipid matrices, NLCs not only improve solubility and stability but also enable targeted delivery to specific body sites. This review comprehensively explores NLCs, covering their composition, properties, preparation methods, and characterization techniques. Mechanistically, NLCs enhance pharmacokinetic parameters through improved solubility, degradation protection, enhanced gastrointestinal absorption, and sustained release. Case studies highlight their potential in augmenting therapeutic outcomes across various medicinal properties. Integration of NLC technology with traditional medicine promises to revolutionize healthcare by merging ancient herbal knowledge with modern pharmaceutical advancements, facilitating personalized medicine through tailored NLC formulations. Overall, this review will discuss NLCs encorporating a transformative strategy in pharmacognostic research, offering opportunities to enhance the therapeutic potential and sustainability of herbal medicines in contemporary healthcare. Interdisciplinary collaboration and ongoing innovation are essential to fully harnessing NLCs' potential in addressing global health challenges and integrating herbal medicine into mainstream healthcare practices.

Keywords: Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), herbal extracts, drug delivery, pharmacognosy, bioavailability enhancement, traditional medicine.