Abstract

CAPERS (CAPPARIS SPINOSA): RECENT APPROACHES IN NOVEL DRUG-DELIVERY SYSTEM

Sanika Yadav*, Mukta Shingade, Pallavi Hake, Dr. Shashikant Dhole

Abstract

Capparis spinosa L., commonly known as the caper plant, is a perennial shrub that grows widely in Asia and the Mediterranean. It belongs to the family Capparidaceae, also known as Capparaceae. It has long been used to treat rheumatism, diabetes, and liver disease due to its therapeutic, nutritional, and aromatic properties. The plant has a wide range of pharmacological activities due to its abundance of bioactive substances, including phenolic acids, alkaloids, glucosinolates, flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin, and rutin), and essential oils. These compounds possess antioxidant, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic qualities. However, the clinical use of C. spinosa is limited due to the phytoconstituents' instability, low bioavailability, and poor solubility. To overcome these challenges, recent research has focused on incorporating isolated compounds or caper extracts into novel drug delivery systems (NDDS) such as hydrogels, liposomes, nanoemulsions, and nanoparticles. These systems improve pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles by enhancing the stability, solubility, and controlled release of bioactive components. This review of Capparis spinosa's phytochemical composition, pharmacological characteristics, and novel formulation methods highlights how nanotechnology can improve the plant's stability and therapeutic effectiveness. It ends by highlighting areas that need further investigation and providing perspectives for the development of standardized, safe, and effective formulations based on capers for use in clinical and nutraceutical settings.

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