# Terpenoid Phytosomes as Advanced Delivery Systems: Molecular Interactions, Pharmacological Potential, and Scalable Manufacturing Approaches

## TL;DR

This paper reviews how phytosomes can improve the delivery and effectiveness of terpenoid compounds for medical use.

## Contribution

The paper provides a comprehensive review of terpenoid phytosomes, focusing on molecular interactions and scalable manufacturing.

## Key findings

- Phytosomes enhance the solubility and bioavailability of terpenoids.
- Molecular interactions between terpenoids and phospholipids are critical for phytosome formation.
- Formulation parameters significantly influence phytosome stability and biological activity.

## Abstract

Terpenoids represent a large class of bioactive natural compounds with promising pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities. However, their clinical application is often limited by poor aqueous solubility, low membrane permeability, and suboptimal bioavailability. Phytosomal delivery systems have emerged as a promising strategy to enhance the pharmacokinetic performance of plant-derived compounds by forming molecular complexes between bioactive molecules and phospholipids. This review critically examines the structural principles, preparation methods, physicochemical characterization, and biological performance of terpenoid phytosomes. Particular attention is given to the molecular interactions between terpenoids and phospholipids that govern complex formation and vesicular assembly. The review also summarizes current analytical techniques used to confirm phytosome formation and discusses the influence of formulation parameters, including phospholipid composition and molar ratios, on stability and biological activity. In addition, emerging insights from molecular modeling and membrane interaction studies are considered to better understand the mechanisms underlying improved drug delivery. Finally, challenges related to safety assessment, manufacturing scalability, and clinical translation of phytosomal systems are discussed. Overall, terpenoid phytosomes represent a promising nanodelivery platform capable of improving the pharmacokinetic profile and therapeutic potential of terpenoid compounds.