Using Tiny Carriers to Deliver Plant-Based Medicines Through the Nose: Treatment Benefits and Challenges

Phytochemical-nanotechnology formulations may enhance nasal drug delivery for improved therapeutic efficacy and brain targeting.

• Phytochemicals like curcumin, resveratrol, and quercetin have strong pharmacological properties but are limited by poor solubility and bioavailability.
• Nanotechnology systems, including nanoparticles and liposomes, can improve the stability, absorption, and controlled release of these phytochemicals.
• Challenges such as nasal mucosa irritation and regulatory barriers currently hinder the clinical application of these formulations.
• Encapsulating curcumin in polymeric nanoparticles has improved its solubility and bioavailability in preclinical Alzheimer's models.
• This integration of phytochemicals and nanotechnology may lead to innovative nasal delivery systems for various medical conditions.

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