Herbal medicines have gained widespread attention due to their therapeutic potential and perceived safety compared with synthetic drugs. However, their clinical application is often limited by challenges such as poor solubility, low bio availability, instability, and inadequate skin penetration when delivered through conventional dosage forms. In recent years, nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems have emerged as a promising approach to overcome these limitations. Nano formulations can enhance the topical and trans-dermal delivery of herbal bio active compounds by improving skin permeation, stability, controlled release, and therapeutic efficacy. This review presents a comprehensive overview of nano-enabled delivery systems developed for the topical administration of herbal medicines. Various nano formulation strategies—including liposomes, ethosomes, phytosomes, nano emulsions, transfersomes, niosomes, lipid nanoparticles, and polymeric nanocarriers—are discussed with respect to their formulation principles, advantages, and applications. Herbal medicines, favorite for their perceived effectiveness and lower cost compared to the conventional treatments, are gaining global popularity. However, many active compounds in these medicines have limitations, such as slow absorption, to a targeting, and instability in certain environments. Making the therapeutic application challenging, herbal medicine contains ingredients that work together to treat diseases. To improve patient adherence and reduce the need for frequent reasons, a gradual and systemic approach to drug delivery is necessary, requiring innovative methods . Additionally, the review highlights safety concerns, toxicity evaluation, and regulatory challenges associated with herbal nano formulations, emphasizing the need for standardized guidelines to ensure their safe clinical translation.
Asha Rajani V1*, Tuja Rani G2, Divya B3, Sathwika B4, Saipravalika K5 (Sun,) studied this question.