Phytosome
Also: phospholipid complex
A botanical compound complexed to phospholipids to improve absorption, especially for poorly absorbed plant actives.
Definition of “Phytosome”
A phytosome is a formulation strategy that binds a plant compound to phospholipids so the compound moves through digestion and into absorption more effectively. It is often used for botanicals that have interesting biology but weak standard absorption, including curcumin, quercetin, and some berberine formulas.
This is related to liposomal delivery, but it is not exactly the same thing. A liposome is a carrier sphere. A phytosome is a more direct complex between the plant active and the phospholipid. For shoppers, the practical takeaway is simpler: phytosome products are usually designed to squeeze more usable absorption out of a smaller dose.
“Phytosome” In Practice
A phytosome curcumin product may use a lower labeled milligram dose than a standard curcumin capsule while still delivering stronger real absorption.
Worth Knowing About “Phytosome”
Phytosome does not tell you everything. You still want to know the active ingredient amount, the supporting evidence for that exact form, and whether the product is comparing itself fairly against standard extracts.