Micelles, formed through the self-assembly of amphiphilic molecules, hold significant promise as drug delivery systems for enhancing the solubility, stability, and targeting properties of active components in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Within the field of Chinese medicine formulation, numerous active constituents can spontaneously form micelles or be encapsulated within micellar carriers via specific preparation techniques, thereby effectively improving drug performance. This paper reviews the formation mechanisms, preparation techniques, and current applications of TCM micelles. In view of the hybrid nature of micelles within complex TCM systems, it combines structural characterisation techniques with key influencing factors in micelle formation. The study identifies existing issues such as disordered self-assembly and lack of controllability in current research, proposing corresponding suggestions and future directions. This aims to provide theoretical reference for modernisation of TCM and the development of innovative formulations.

micelles  /  amphiphilic molecules  /  self-assembly  /  disorder  /  hybridity  /  structural characterisation