Reviewing the Therapeutic Potential of Plant-based Natural Products Against Multidrug-resistant Bacteria (MDR)

Abstract: The global health of individuals is severely threatened by drug-resistant microorganisms. Existing antibiotics available in the market, such as penicillin, cephalosporins, new β- lactams, aminoglycosides, macrolides, lincomycin, and quinolones, are losing their effectiveness due to overuse and inappropriate prescribing, among other factors. This situation underscores the urgent need to develop new antimicrobial agents. In response to this challenge, attention has been directed towards natural products derived from plants, which have been utilized for their medicinal benefits over an extended period. Various studies have demonstrated that plant-based natural products exhibit antibacterial action against multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, making them potential candidates for the development of novel antimicrobial medicines. Plants belonging to classes, such as alkaloids, organosulfur compounds, terpenoids, coumarin, and polyphenols have been found to possess antimicrobial properties. This paper reviews the antimicrobial activity of plant-based natural products, whether used alone or in combination with conventional antibiotics. Additionally, the paper explores their mechanisms against drugresistant bacteria, the potential development of resistance against them, their current role in medicine, and their future perspectives.