Advanced encapsulation techniques for essential oils: enhancing stability and bioavailability through nanocarriers

Essential oils (EOs) are composed of bioactive compounds with significant antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. However, their high volatility, poor aqueous solubility, and chemical instability hinder effective dosing and bioavailability. Recent advancements in nanoencapsulation methods, including oil-in-water nanoemulsions, liposomes, and polymeric nanoparticles, aim to stabilize EOs and regulate their release. This review comprehensively evaluates these platforms, comparing their encapsulation efficiency, release kinetics, and functional gains, like enhanced stability, targeted delivery, and synergistic antimicrobial/antioxidant efficacy as compared to free oils. Innovations like stimuli-responsive carriers are also explored. Nonetheless, practical challenges including scale-up efficiency, carrier toxicity, and regulatory approval for Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) materials pose limitations. Sustainability aspects emphasize green extraction methods and biodegradable materials. Future directions include rigorous clinical validation, standardized essential oil characterization, and scalable manufacturing, highlighting the interdisciplinary collaboration needed to realize the translational promise of EO-based nanoformulations.