Innovative phytoceutical-based drug delivery in the management of pulmonary fibrosis: a roadmap towards inhaled therapeutics

The long-lasting wounding of lung tissue that results in pulmonary fibrosis is a long-term, gradual lung condition that eventually impairs breathing and causes respiratory failure. For decades, people from a variety of cultures have used phytoceuticals for their therapeutic benefits, providing a holistic and natural approach to treatment. Phytoceuticals are well-known compound that consists of active ingredients that are extracted from plants and produces therapeutic effects in treating pulmonary fibrosis. In this review, the plants that were discussed to manage pulmonary fibrosis include Quercetum, chamomile, thyme, parsley, garlic, guava, broccoli, Curcuma longa, Scutellariae radix, Erigeron breviscapus, Moraceae, Ruta graveolens. Other than that, the mechanism of action of the type of pulmonary fibrosis and drug delivery through inhalation also discussed. The nanoparticles that can be used in drug delivery include liposomes, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), dextran, acetalated dextran, polymeric micelle, lyotropic liquid crystalline and polyethylene glycol (PEG).