Tocotrienols: A Review From Source to Therapeutic Applications

Tocotrienols, isoforms of vitamin E, have attracted growing interest because of their enhanced antioxidant activity and diverse therapeutic potential compared to α‐tocopherol. This review examines the main natural sources of these compounds—palm oil and annatto seeds. It also explores strategies to improve their bioavailability using nanoemulsions, liposomes, and solid lipid nanoparticles, which have shown significant enhancement in absorption. The review examines the most used administration routes in therapeutic applications, comparing oral, topical, and parenteral delivery methods and their respective advantages in specific clinical contexts. Key mechanisms discussed include their ability to neutralize free radicals and inhibit lipid peroxidation, protective effects against excitotoxicity and oxidative damage in neuronal cells, and antitumor actions involving induction of apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and inhibition of angiogenesis. Preclinical studies suggest tocotrienols may show enhanced anti‐inflammatory and protective properties compared to other forms of vitamin E, in in vitro and animal models of neurodegeneration and chronic inflammation. However, these promising preclinical findings need validation through robust human clinical trials to confirm their efficacy and safety. Consolidating the application of these formulations in human health requires optimization and a deeper understanding of their mechanisms of action. Proper dosing regimens for various therapeutic indications must also be established.