Plant-derived
polyphenols are increasingly receiving attention as dietary supplements for the homeostatic management of
inflammation, to support detoxication, and for anticancer,
weight loss, and other benefits. Their pro-homeostatic effects on genes,
transcription factors,
enzymes, and cell signaling pathways are being intensively explored, but the poor bioavailability of some
polyphenols likely contributes to poor clinical trial outcomes. This review covers four
polyphenol preparations with poor bioavailability and their complexation into
phytosomes to bypass this problem.
Silybin and the other
silymarin flavonolignans from milk thistle conserve tissue
glutathione, are liver-protective, and have anticancer potential.
Curcumin and its related diphenolic
curcuminoids have potent
antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic properties. The
green tea flavan-3-ol catechins have
antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardio- and neuro-protective effects, and anti-carcinogenic benefits, with fat oxidation effects coupled to
weight loss. The complex grape seed
proanthocyanidin mix (including
catechin and
epicatechin monomers and oligomers) counters oxidative stress and protects the circulatory system. For each of these preparations, conversion into
phytosomes has improved efficacy without compromising safety. The phytosome technology creates intermolecular bonding between individual
polyphenol molecules and one or more molecules of the
phospholipid,
phosphatidylcholine (PC). Molecular imaging suggests that PC molecule(s) enwrap each
polyphenol; upon oral intake the amphipathic PC molecules likely usher the
polyphenol through the intestinal epithelial cell outer membrane, subsequently accessing the bloodstream. PC itself has proven clinical efficacy that contributes to phytosome in vivo actions. As a molecular delivery vehicle, phytosome technology substantially improves the clinical applicabilities of
polyphenols and other poorly absorbed plant medicinals.