Potential of plants-based alkaloids, terpenoids and flavonoids as antibacterial agents: An update

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as a critical public health concern in the 21st century, driven by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics. This review focuses on the potential of phytochemicals, notably flavonoids, terpenoids, and alkaloids, as alternative antibacterial agents to treat resistant pathogens. These natural chemicals have a variety of chemical compositions and modes of action that can suppress bacterial growth while increasing the efficiency of current antibiotics. Phytochemicals have been demonstrated to target numerous pathways within bacterial cells, lowering the chances of resistance development. Despite their potential, there is still a significant gap in knowing how to successfully employ these chemicals for therapeutic purposes. The study underlines the necessity for novel research approaches for looking into phytochemicals' antibacterial capabilities and synergistic effects with conventional antibiotics. By resolving these gaps, the scientific community can unleash the therapeutic potential of plant-derived compounds, revealing the path for new approaches to combating AMR and improving public health outcomes. This compilation of existing information intends to stimulate further research into the use of phytochemicals in current medicine, ultimately helping to combat antibiotic-resistant pathogens.