The Novel Approaches to Extraction Techniques, Drug Delivery Technologies, Pharmacological Applications, Patents of the Potent Flavonoid ‘Luteolin’: An Appraisal

Herbal plants have been widely used in traditional medicine due to their natural origin, easy accessibility, and generally safer profile compared to synthetic drugs. Luteolin, a naturally occurring flavonoid, holds a significant place in traditional systems such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, where it has been used to manage inflammation, respiratory conditions, and digestive issues, and to support overall health. It is commonly found in herbs like Ocimum sanctum L., Capsicum annuum L. celery, and chamomile. In recent years, luteolin has been extensively studied for its diverse pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and neuroprotective effects. This review provides a detailed examination of luteolin, covering its natural sources, structure-activity relationship, and various extraction techniques both conventional and modern. Additionally, it explores its mechanisms of action, pharmacological activities, and advancements in nanoformulation strategies, along with the experimental models used to assess their efficacy. The review also compiles available data on clinical trials and patents related to luteolin. By presenting comprehensive and consolidated information, this review serves as a valuable resource for guiding future research and therapeutic development.