Learning from Nature: Naturally Derived Remedies

• Published in: Antibiofilm Strategies pp. 325 - 350
• Main Author: Suzuki, Masanobu
• Format: Book Chapter
• Language: English
• Published: Cham Springer International Publishing
• Series: Springer Series on Biofilms
• Subjects: Antimicrobial property; Essential oil; Honey; Manuka honey; Tea
• ISBN: 3031109910; 9783031109911
• ISSN: 1863-9607; 1863-9615
• DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-10992-8_13

The rise and spread of antimicrobial resistance among microbes represents one of today’s most pressing global health issues. To combat the antimicrobial resistance of pathogens, the ongoing development of novel antibiotics is still the primary approach. However, due to the stalled antibiotic development pipeline, it is vital that novel, practical, and accessible methods, distinct from antibiotics, will be established to combat antimicrobial-resistant pathogens. One promising strategy is the medical application of natural products exhibiting antimicrobial properties. Traditionally, many types of natural products were applied to the treatment of a variety of diseases or medical conditions as natural remedies. In particular, components—directly or indirectly derived from plants—have attracted interest among researchers and clinicians due to their antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties, good safety profiles, and less likelihood of resistance development. In this section, we discuss natural products with potential clinical applications against biofilm-related infections, such as honey, essential oils, and teas. We present current research based on animal models and clinical research, as well as in vitro studies.