Nanotechnology Promoting the Development of Products from the Biodiversity of the Asteraceae Family

Nutrients. 2023 Mar 26;15(7):1610. doi: 10.3390/nu15071610.

Abstract

Biodiversity is a hallmark of the Asteraceae family. Several species are known for their pharmacological potential. The search for new substances has permeated the chemistry of natural products for years. However, the development of a final product is still a challenge. Plant extracts have physicochemical characteristics that sometimes hinder administration, requiring a formulation. In this context, nanotechnology emerges as a tool to improve the pharmacokinetic parameters of several pharmacologically active substances. Nanoemulsions, liposomes, and nanoparticles are used to carry the active ingredients and thus improve therapeutic action, especially for substances with solubility and absorption problems. This paper aimed at compiling all the studies that used nanotechnology to develop formulations from species of the Asteraceae family from 2010 to 2021 in a literature review. The search showed that nanoemulsions are the most developed formulation associated with essential oils. The use of nanotechnology promoted an improvement in the pharmacokinetic parameters of active substances.

Keywords: herbal medicine; nanocapsules; nanoemulsion; nanoformulation; nanomedice; natural products.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Asteraceae*
  • Biodiversity
  • Nanoparticles* / chemistry
  • Nanotechnology
  • Plant Extracts / chemistry
  • Plant Extracts / pharmacology

Substances

  • Plant Extracts