Advances in the source, preparation, and application of phytosterols

Phytosterols, also referred to as plant sterols, represent naturally occurring compounds exclusive to the plant kingdom. This comprehensive review delves into the multifaceted realm of phytosterols, encompassing their structural characteristics and physiological functions. A keen focus is placed on elucidating their sources, with an emphasis on their abundance in unprocessed materials. The paper meticulously explores the diverse methods employed in the preparation of phytosterols, concurrently scrutinizing the detection techniques applied in their analysis. Within the medical domain, phytosterols have gained recognition for their efficacy in reducing LDL cholesterol levels, thereby proving instrumental in averting cardiovascular diseases, addressing breast cancer, and managing metabolic disorders. In the cosmetic industry, plant-based oils, enriched with polyunsaturated fatty acids, function as potent antioxidants and moisturizers, counteracting the detrimental effects of free radicals. Furthermore, in the realm of the food industry, phytosterols play a pivotal role in the construction of Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLCs), preserving the bioavailability of various compounds. This review article stands out for its synthesis of existing research, offering succinct summaries of each section while adeptly bridging identified research gaps. Its intrinsic value lies in its potential to serve as a crucial resource for researchers, fostering deeper investigations and streamlining research endeavors in the medical, cosmetic, and food sectors.