Abstract

Natural compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and saponins demonstrate significant 
anti-obesity potential by regulating adipogenesis, lipolysis, appetite, and energy expenditure. However, their 
clinical application is limited by poor solubility, low bioavailability, rapid metabolism, and instability in the 
gastrointestinal tract. Nanoformulation strategies including polymeric nanoparticles, lipid-based carriers, 
micelles, dendrimers, and nanoemulsions offer promising solutions to these barriers. By improving solubility, 
protecting bioactives from degradation, enhancing absorption, and enabling targeted or sustained release, 
nanoformulations significantly enhance therapeutic efficacy. This review explores the principles of 
nanoformulation, preclinical and clinical advances, translational barriers, clinical perspectives, and future 
directions for integrating nanotechnology with natural product–based obesity therapy. Nanoformulations may 
transform natural bioactives into clinically viable anti-obesity treatments, though long-term safety, cost, and 
regulatory concerns remain critical challenges. 
Keywords: Nanoformulations, Natural compounds, Obesity, Nanocarriers, Bioavailability