Nanotechnology-based Formulation for Alternative Medicines and Natural Products: An Introduction with Clinical Studies

Abstract

The majority of the world's population uses alternative medicines and natural products. To achieve the targeted therapeutic goal for the medicinal product, the active medicament must be given at an appropriate dose and rate. Nanotechnology-based formulations have provided a platform for improving medications by including new sources and carrier systems that traditional formulations could not incorporate. Appropriate biopharmaceutic formulations can change the extent and rate of bioavailability or the systemic distribution of medicines in the body from complete and fast absorption to prolonged and gradual absorption, depending on the preferred regard for the benefits. Antioxidant, antibacterial, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, anticancer, and other characteristics are crucial in alternative treatments and natural products. Despite their therapeutic potential, the use of these beneficial compounds is restricted due to their low solubility, stability, bioavailability, and gastrointestinal degradation, all of which reduce the biological activity. Nanotechnology-based formulations have been presented as adaptable assemblies to circumvent the limits of alternative medicines and natural products. This chapter reviews the features of nanotechnology-based formulations for alternative medicines and natural products, as well as an introduction to their clinical use and limitations.