Herbal medicines have played a vital role in healthcare for centuries, forming the backbone of traditional medicine systems across cultures. In recent years, there has been a growing resurgence in interest for herbal drug products due to their therapeutic potential, fewer side effects, and holistic approach to disease management. WHO guidelines for assessing safety, efficacy, and quality are crucial for global harmonization. However, despite their widespread use, many herbal drugs face significant challenges, including poor solubility, stability issues, low bioavailability, and lack of targeted delivery. To address these limitations, advancements in formulation and drug delivery technologies have emerged as a transformative force in the herbal drug industry.

Innovative delivery systems such as phytosomes, nanoemulsions, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, and polymeric nanoparticles have demonstrated improved pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of herbal drugs. These technologies enhance the solubility, stability, controlled release, and targeted delivery of bioactive compounds, thereby maximizing therapeutic efficacy and patient compliance. Furthermore, incorporation of herbal actives in transdermal patches, mucoadhesive systems, and novel oral delivery vehicles opens new avenues for non-invasive and sustained drug delivery.