Ayurveda and Nanotechnology - A Synergistic Approach to Enhance Therapeutic Efficacy

Abstract

Medicine, materials science, and biotechnology are just a few of the fields that have been transformed by nanotechnology, the research and engineering of materials at the nanoscale (usually 1–100 nanometers). Materials of this scale have distinct physical, chemical, and biological characteristics that set them apart from their bulk counterparts, enabling improved accuracy and functioning. New avenues for therapeutic innovation have recently been made possible by the combination of nanotechnology and conventional medicinal systems like Ayurveda. This has the potential to significantly improve the targeted distribution, bioavailability, and effectiveness of Ayurvedic medicines. Nanoparticles are a necessary component of traditional Ayurvedic procedures, such as making of Bhasmas (metallic or mineral ash), suggesting a long-standing, albeit unrecorded, use of nanoscale materials. The integration of nanotechnology not only strengthens the therapeutic value of Ayurveda but also bridges the gap between traditional knowledge and modern medicine. Applications include nano-carriers for herbal extracts, nano-emulsions, and lipid-based nanoparticles to deliver active phytoconstituents more efficiently. However, comprehensive toxicological studies, standardization protocols, and regulatory frameworks are essential to ensure safety and efficacy. This article examines how Ayurveda and nanotechnology intersect, stressing recent developments, difficulties, and opportunities in this nascent multidisciplinary field.