Paper Contents
Abstract
Natural products have been a rich source of antimicrobial agents since ancient times, playing a crucial role in the development of modern drugs. This review comprehensively explores the antimicrobial properties of natural products derived from various sources, including plants, animals, minerals, and microbes. The diverse array of active principles and secondary metabolites present in these natural sources, such as alkaloids, tannins, terpenoids, essential oils, flavonoids, and proteins, contribute to their effectiveness against a wide range of microorganisms.Specific examples highlight the antimicrobial potential of various natural products. Neem leaves, essential oils from Thyme, Cinnamon, and Eucalyptus, and triterpenoids from Glycyrrhiza glabra exemplify the broad spectrum of activities exhibited by these compounds. Furthermore, the medicinal value of animal-derived products, such as the Kadaknath breed of poultry and mineral sources like cow urine concentrate and cow dung, underscores the diverse origins of these antimicrobial agents.The review emphasizes the need for a coordinated approach among researchers, scientists, industrialists, Ayurveda experts, administrators, and funding agencies to fully harness the immense potential of natural products in drug development. As an alternate source for combating infections, natural products offer a promising avenue, and their exploration requires a multidisciplinary effort. This review provides insights into the current understanding of natural productsantimicrobial properties and their significance in the context of contemporary healthcare challenges.
Copyright
Copyright © 2023 Shreesh Tiwari. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.
