Title : Phytochemicals in skin disease: Mechanistic insights and translational applications
Abstract:
Skin diseases represent a major global health burden driven by complex interactions between oxidative stress, inflammation, microbial imbalance, barrier dysfunction and dysregulated cell proliferation. In response to growing concerns regarding the safety, tolerability and long-term use of synthetic dermatological agents, interest in phytochemicals derived from medicinal aromatic plants has increased substantially. This chapter reviews the therapeutic potential and application of major phytochemical classes, including polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, polysaccharides, anthraquinones and tannins in the management of inflammatory, infectious, pigmentary, photochemical and neoplastic skin disorders. Emphasis is placed on mechanistic pathways through which phytochemicals exert dermatological effects, such as modulation of oxidative stress, inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines, antimicrobial activity, enhancement of wound healing and regulation of melanogenesis and keratinocyte proliferation. While substantial preclinical and in vitro evidence supports these biological activities, clinical validation remains variable and is often limited by poor bioavailability, formulation instability and inconsistent standardisation of botanical extracts. In addition, this chapter explores sustainable sourcing, conservation strategies for great demand medicinal plants and emerging formulation approaches aimed at improving phytochemical delivery and safety. This review highlights both the promise and current limitations of phytochemical interventions by integrating ethnobotanical knowledge with modern dermatological science. Future research priorities include rigorous clinical evaluation, advanced delivery systems and regulatory frameworks to support the responsible translation of bioactive botanicals into safe and effective skin disease management strategies.
