Annual Research & Review in Biology

The combination of nanotechnology and plant-based phytochemicals is transforming drug delivery and therapy. Plant extracts have bioactive compounds that offer numerous promising medical applications, however, the medicinal benefits of the bioactive compounds are limited due to challenges such as poor penetration of the cell membrane and large molecular size. Nanotechnology can improve absorption, bioavailability, targeted delivery of the bioactive compounds, increasing efficacy and reducing adverse side effects. Plant-mediated nanoparticles deliver sustainable environmentally friendly nanoparticles with strong bioavailability, controlled release, and targeted delivery systems, allowing for improved therapeutics to treat infections, cancer, inflammation, etc. Examples of the bioactive compounds from plant extracts are silver and gold nanoparticles, which have good antimicrobial and anticancer properties. This review examines the rapidly evolving field of nanoparticles in nanomedicine by advocating their synergy with Ayurveda and plant extracts in herbal nanomedicine. It discusses green synthesis pathways, practical therapeutic uses, and their current limitations such as toxicity and producing bulk therapeutics. By connecting traditional medicine with modern nanotechnology, the emerging area of nanoparticle use represents an important new frontier in the exploration and development of plant-based therapeutics and drug-delivery systems. The review also provides significant new insights into the role of nanoparticles in producing efficient and defined therapeutic mechanisms, and therefore, will likely help spearhead future clinical applications and improved health care experiences. The field is an exciting time in medicine and is destined to undergo further growth, change and innovation.