Applications of (nano)encapsulated natural products by physical and chemical methods

Abstract

Natural products that originate from fungal, bacteria, plant, marine, and animal sources have a wide variety of applications. Numerous studies have highlighted natural products in different areas for medicinal purposes, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer agents. Although they are fascinating from an applied point of view, natural products can be unstable and fragile. A key issue for using these natural products and biomolecules is their bioavailability and stability, depending on the context in which they will be applied. In this context, encapsulation is a viable alternative to protect active compounds against the deterioration of environmental conditions, maintaining their natural compounds. Many encapsulation methods can be used, whether physical or chemical, and their use is intrinsically linked to their application. Among them, we can highlight electrospinning methods and micelles' formation. These encapsulation methods allow their application internally or externally to living organisms, bringing a series of distinct benefits. In an increasingly efficient search for new drugs, the encapsulation of natural products can enhance delivery and use. This chapter will emphasize physical and chemical methods and the characterization of nanoencapsulated natural products for different applications.