Reformulating asthma therapy through nano-phytomedicine: Insights into lung health and microplastic exposure

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by bronchoconstriction, increased mucus production, and airway inflammation. Its prevalence is highest in industrialized nations and is steadily rising worldwide. Although conventional asthma medications offer symptomatic relief, they are often associated with adverse effects, limited efficacy, and poor patient compliance. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the effectiveness of nano-formulation technologies in enhancing the stability, distribution, and therapeutic efficacy of phytochemicals used to treat asthma. It also explores the detrimental effects of microplastics on the lungs, as well as their significance as a key determinant in the pathogenesis of various pulmonary diseases, including asthma. Recent research integrating nanotechnology and phytomedicine in the treatment of asthma has been thoroughly reviewed in the literature. The majority of the references cited in this work are from the timespan 2017 – 2025, majorly focusing on the recent time frame (2022–2025), sourced mainly from PubMed, Google Scholar and NIH Database. The potential of different kinds of nanoparticles, including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, and solid lipid nanoparticles, to enhance the pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of herbal substances was investigated. Nano-phytomedicine reduces systemic negative effects while facilitating controlled release, targeted drug administration, and enhanced phytochemical bioavailability. In asthma models, studies have demonstrated that phytochemical-loaded nanoparticles, such as those containing quercetin and curcumin, dramatically lower oxidative stress, immunological imbalance, and airway inflammation. Additionally, because these nanoformulations have fewer adverse effects and a lower frequency of dosage, they improve patient compliance. Asthma treatment using nano-phytomedicine is a novel and promising approach. By addressing the limitations of traditional therapies and enhancing the therapeutic benefits of herbal remedies, it offers a more secure, efficient, and patient-friendly alternative. To confirm its safety and effectiveness and facilitate its incorporation into clinical practice, more clinical research is necessary. • Recent report on Nano-phytomedicine for Asthma. • Microplastic aggravates asthma, damage lung walls, and cause inflammation. • Different Plants with their anti-asthmatic properties were depicted. • Summarized various applications of Nano-phytomedicine in asthma treatment.