Antimicrobial

An antimicrobial is a substance designed to combat and limit the growth of microbes. These microbes encompass various pathogens, such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. By targeting these pathogens, antimicrobials play a crucial role in the prevention and treatment of infections.

Mechanim of Selectivity of Antimicrobial Peptides

Main Classes of Antimicrobials

Antibiotics

Antibiotics represent a subset of antimicrobials known for their antibacterial and antifungal properties. Initially, antibiotics were derived from living organisms, but advancements in science have led to the synthesis of these compounds, like the sulfonamides.

The rise of antibiotics in the 20th century profoundly impacted medicine by reducing morbidity and mortality due to bacterial infections. This era was marked by significant discoveries from 1945 to 1970. However, post-1980 saw a decline in new antimicrobial agents, and a concerning surge in bacterial resistance .

Such resistance is a result of the misuse of antibiotics, for instance, when prescribed for viral infections. The widespread and incorrect use of these drugs has spurred antibiotic-resistant pathogens, leading to global health concerns. A potential solution lies in harnessing the antimicrobial properties of plants, many of which traditional healers have employed for ages. Modern research has shown numerous plants possess components that inhibit bacterial growth and may offer a different mode of action than contemporary antibiotics.

AntiMicrobial Symbol

Essential oils

Many essential oils are known for their external antimicrobial activities, and they find use in a range of applications:

• Tea tree oil: Widely used in cosmetics and medicine.
• Mint oil: Found in medicines and cosmetics like toothpaste.
• Leleshwa oil: Known for its potent antimicrobial properties.
• Sandalwood oil: Common in cosmetics.
• Clove oil: Used in stomatology and other medicinal applications.
• Lavender oil: Popular in aromatherapy.
• Nigella sativa (Black cumin) oil: Known for its broad therapeutic properties.
• Onion (Allium cepe): Its phytoncides are used in phytotherapy.

Some of these oils, owing to their acknowledged benefits, have been incorporated into national Pharmacopoeias, while many are also popular in Aromatherapy.

Nitrofuranes

Nitrofuranes are synthetic antimicrobials known for their broad-spectrum activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.

Inorganic cations

Hg²⁺ and Hg₂²⁺: Have historical use as antimicrobials but are less common today due to toxicity concerns. Ag+: Silver ions have long been recognized for their antimicrobial properties, especially in wound care.

Organic surfactants

Organic surfactants function by disrupting microbial cell membranes. This action can lead to the lysis or disintegration of the microbe, rendering it nonfunctional.

See also

• Antibiotics
• Antiseptic
• Disinfectant

Antimicrobial Resources
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