Therapeutic potential of lipid nanocarriers for phytoconstituent delivery in psoriasis management

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory skin condition with numerous physical, psychological, and systemic complications. Treatment with conventional topical medications, phototherapy, systemic medications, and biologics although provide symptomatic relief, but their use is limited by toxicity, cost and inadequate healing efficiency. Phytoconstituents like curcumin, resveratrol, and quercetin exert powerful anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties by targeting the pathogenic pathways such as the IL-23/Th17/IL-17 axis and NF-κB signaling. However, their practical translation is hindered by low water solubility, chemical instability, fast metabolism, and poor skin penetration. Lipid-based nanocarriers, including liposomes, ethosomes, transfersomes, niosomes, nanoemulsions, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), have emerged as potential solutions for overcoming these constraints. These carriers elevate solubility, prevent actives from degradation, facilitate regulated release, and enhance skin penetration and drug localisation. This review summarises the therapeutic potential of plant-derived anti-psoriatic agents, explores lipid-based nanotechnology delivery strategies, and discusses current challenges and future opportunities for incorporating these approaches into effective, safe, and patient-friendly psoriasis treatments.