Emerging Technologies for Improving Phytochemical Bioavailability: Benefits and Risks

Over the past two decades, the usage of botanical dietary supplements has steadily increased worldwide. This growing popularity has been especially notable among people in Western countries, where almost 20% of consumers report regular usage of such supplements. 1 Despite their popularity, demonstrable efficacy has remained elusive for many of these agents. 2,3 To improve the efficacy of these agents, researchers and manufacturers have begun adopting novel drug formulation technologies to enhance phytochemical bioavailability (Table 1). However, improved absorption of pharmacologically active phytochemicals may also augment the risk of adverse effects.