Abstract

HERBAL ACTIVES IN TRANSDERMAL DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEMS

*Saravana Kumar M., D. Dhachinamoorthi, B. Premkumar, Anbu Selvam E., Fathima Nazeerin M., Harisundar A., Shibil Hadi V., Shibila T.

ABSTRACT

Herbal actives are bioactive phytochemicals extracted from plants and incorporated into transdermal patches for controlled, non-invasive delivery. These compounds flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, glycosides, and polyphenols offer therapeutic benefits with minimal toxicity. Below is a structured overview of key herbal actives used in transdermal drug delivery their physicochemical properties, therapeutic uses, and formulation considerations. Transdermal drug delivery systems, commonly known as transdermal patches, are pharmaceutical dosage forms designed to deliver drugs through the skin into the systemic circulation at a controlled rate. This non-invasive method bypasses the gastrointestinal tract and first-pass metabolism in the liver, offering advantages like steady drug release, improved patient compliance, and reduced side effects compared to oral or injectable routes. Herbal transdermal patches represent an innovative fusion1 of traditional herbal medicine and modern transdermal drug delivery systems. These patches incorporate bioactive extracts from plants, herbs, or natural sources into a matrix or reservoir design, allowing controlled release through the skin for systemic or localized effects. Rooted in ancient practices like Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine ointments and plasters, they offer a non-invasive alternative to oral or injectable herbal remedies, bypassing gastrointestinal degradation and first pass metabolism for potentially higher bioavailability. As of 2025, they are gaining traction for applications in pain relief, wound healing, inflammation, and chronic conditions, with growing clinical evidence supporting their efficacy. Herbal transdermal patches combine the therapeutic benefits of plant-based bioactives with the controlled release mechanism of modern transdermal delivery systems. They offer distinct advantages over traditional oral herbal remedies, synthetic patches, and other administration routes.

Keywords: Herbal actives, TDDS, Non-invasive method, TCM, Plant based bioactives, wound healing.