HERBAL ANTIBACTERIAL THERAPY: A REVIEW

Ashirvad Chauhan*, Riya Singh, Shweta Mishra, Ankit Chauhan, Azad Chauhan, Nitesh Devvanshi, Ahmad Hamble and Km. Shveta Yadav

ABSTRACT

The increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has led to a renewed interest in exploring alternative sources of antimicrobial agents, including medicinal plants. Many plants traditionally used in folk medicine possess antibacterial properties that could be harnessed for modern therapeutic applications. This paper explores the antibacterial properties of several medicinal plants, including neem (Azadirachta indica), garlic (Allium sativum), turmeric (Curcuma longa), ginger (Zingiber officinale), and aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) etc. These plants have been widely recognized for their effectiveness in combating bacterial infections, with compounds as key contributors to their antibacterial activity. These plants can inhibit the growth of various pathogenic bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus subtilis etc. In addition to their antibacterial effects, some of these plants exhibit anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and immune-boosting properties, making them multifunctional agents in the treatment of infections. Despite their promising potential, challenges remain in standardizing the use of plant-based antimicrobial agents, ensuring safety, and addressing variations in efficacy due to environmental factors. Nevertheless, the growing body of research on the antibacterial properties of medicinal plants underscores their value as natural alternatives or adjuncts to conventional, novel antibiotics, particularly in light of the global rise in antibiotic resistance. Further studies are needed to explore their full therapeutic potential and integrate them into mainstream healthcare practices.

Keywords: Antibacterial properties, Antibiotic resistance, Phytomedicine, Natural antimicrobial agents.