Phytosome: A novel approach towards functional cosmetics

Abstract

Phytosomes are newly introduced structure, which contains the bioactive phytoconstituents of herb surrounds and bound by a lipid. Most of the bioactive constituents of phytomedicines are water-soluble compounds e.g., flavonoids, glycosides etc. Flavonoids are a major class of bioactive compounds possesses broad therapeutic activities. Most of the plant flavonoids i.e., glycyrrhizic acid, silymarin also having cosmetic value apart from their medicinal value, when applied topically. Plant flavonoids have local action on some diseases like inflammation, oedema, pain, fungal infections etc. But their use in topical application is restricted due to poor absorption through skin. Phytosomes are probably a system which can improve absorption of phytoconstituents through skin, to regulate the physiology of skin compositions. The improvement in the functioning of skin suggests the functional cosmetic value of the phytosomes. Generally the passage of the compounds anchored to phospholipids takes place through interaction with cutaneous structure, which influences the release of the phytoconstituents. The rate of absorption from the complex is dramatically enhanced with out damaging the epidermis, which suggesting potential use of phytoconstituent- phospholipids complex for cosmetic value in skin as well as for systemic function via skin. © 2007 Academic Journals Inc.