Nanoparticle-Based Delivery of Phytomedicines: Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract Phytomedicines (plant-derived drugs) express a vast array of biological activities and therefore, phytomedicines have been practiced worldwide since the ancient times for the prevention and treatment of the diseases. However, various chemical and biological barriers like insolubility, hydrophobicity, low bioavailability, and high toxicity restrict the application of such imperative phytomedicines. In this regard, drug-delivery technologies have attracted enormous attention. A novel drug-delivery system can efficiently transport phytomedicines and be capable of increasing the therapeutic index as well as the bioavailability of the phytomedicines. Further, nanoparticle-based drug-delivery systems enhance delivery of herbal drugs to their respective target(s). In this chapter, we summarize the role of drug-delivery systems used for phytomedicines and their potential to deliver phytomedicines against assorted life-threatening diseases.