ABSTRACT
Thymoquinone is a potential phytoconstituent derived from the seed oil of Nigella sativa. Until recently, thymoquinone was used as an essential phytochemical for various pharmacogenetic properties such as antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Because of its effective molecular kinetics with reactive oxygen species and other biospecies in the human body, it is helpful in the development of drugs for several chronic disorders. Though the effectivity of thymoquinone is high, the proper dosage and delivery to specific organs without losing its stability is a high standard for designing drug carriers. Thymoquinone is highly unstable under temperature, light and low pH conditions. Thus, nanocarriers that encapsulate the thymoquinone to deliver it to the affected area is the most developing aspect of research. Lipids and polymeric nanocarriers are formulated for encapsulation of thymoquinone by various types and methodologies for targeted drug delivery. In this chapter, we discuss the various types of thymoquinone-loaded nanocarriers for treatment of various types of cancers and brain disorders.
