Volume-2 ,Issue-8, August- 2026

Phytosomal drug delivery systems are advanced lipid-based carriers developed to improve the topical delivery of plant-derived bioactive compounds. Conventional herbal formulations often suffer from poor solubility, low bioavailability, chemical instability, and limited skin penetration, which reduce their therapeutic effectiveness. Phytosomes overcome these limitations by forming molecular complexes between phytochemicals and phospholipids, particularly phosphatidylcholine, resulting in enhanced stability, membrane permeability, and controlled release. This review summarizes recent developments in phytosomal systems for topical and transdermal applications. It discusses major preparation techniques, including solvent evaporation, anti-solvent precipitation, and supercritical fluid methods, along with important characterization approaches such as spectroscopic, thermal, and microscopic analysis. The review also highlights the mechanisms responsible for improved skin penetration and enhanced dermal absorption. Therapeutic and cosmetic applications of phytosomes in anti-ageing, wound healing, inflammatory skin disorders, antimicrobial therapy, and photoprotection are critically discussed. Despite significant progress, challenges related to herbal standardization, large-scale manufacturing, regulatory approval, and limited clinical studies remain. Phytosomal technology represents a promising strategy for enhancing the efficacy and topical performance of phytochemicals in dermatological and cosmeceutical formulations.

Keyword: Phytosomes, topical drug delivery, phospholipids, phytochemicals, skin permeation, nanocarriers, herbal formulations, Dermatology, transdermal delivery