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Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils
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Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils

A special issue of Antibiotics (ISSN 2079-6382). This special issue belongs to the section "Plant-Derived Antibiotics".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 September 2020) | Viewed by 69927

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Ângelo Luís

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
CICS-UBI Health Sciences Research Centre, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
Interests: plant extracts; essential oils; polyphenols; antioxidant and antimicrobial properties; functional films
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The clinical use of antibiotics, and therefore the effective treatment of bacterial infections, is under considerable threat due to the emergence of bacteria that are resistant to many classes of commonly used antibiotics. Therefore, the development of suitable alternatives to replace, or at least support, systemic antibiotic therapy is much needed. The strengths of phytochemicals in this area are less obvious but certainly compelling. Firstly, in terms of plant chemical ecology, it is logical that plants produce antibacterial metabolites as part of their chemical defence strategy to protect themselves against microbes in their environment. Secondly, there are countless examples of plants which are used topically and systemically to treat bacterial infections in the ethnobotanical setting. This Special Issue aims to publish high-quality manuscripts evaluating the antibacterial properties of plant extracts and essential oils together with their chemical characterization. Moreover, studies regarding the anti-biofilm activity and/or the inhibition of quorum sensing mechanisms by plant extracts and essential oils will be a particular focus. In addition, emergent approaches incorporating natural bioactive compounds to control microbial growth are of interest.

Dr. Ângelo Luís
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • Antibacterial activity
  • Plant extracts
  • Essential oils
  • Antimicrobial resistance
  • Biofilms
  • Quorum sensing
  • Synergic interactions
  • Functional films

Published Papers (16 papers)

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Research

14 pages, 853 KiB  
Article
Susceptibility of Campylobacter Strains to Selected Natural Products and Frontline Antibiotics
by Noel Gahamanyi, Dae-Geun Song, Kwang Hyun Cha, Kye-Yoon Yoon, Leonard E.G. Mboera, Mecky I. Matee, Dieudonné Mutangana, Raghavendra G. Amachawadi, Erick V.G. Komba and Cheol-Ho Pan
Antibiotics 2020, 9(11), 790; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antibiotics9110790 - 09 Nov 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2935
Abstract
Campylobacter species have developed resistance to existing antibiotics. The development of alternative therapies is, therefore, a necessity. This study evaluates the susceptibility of Campylobacter strains to selected natural products (NPs) and frontline antibiotics. Two C. jejuni strains (ATCC® 33560TM and MT947450) [...] Read more.
Campylobacter species have developed resistance to existing antibiotics. The development of alternative therapies is, therefore, a necessity. This study evaluates the susceptibility of Campylobacter strains to selected natural products (NPs) and frontline antibiotics. Two C. jejuni strains (ATCC® 33560TM and MT947450) and two C. coli strains (ATCC® 33559TM and MT947451) were used. The antimicrobial potential of the NPs, including plant extracts, essential oils, and pure phytochemicals, was evaluated by broth microdilution. The growth was measured by spectrophotometry and iodonitrotetrazolium chloride. Antibiotic resistance genes (tet(O) and gyrA) were characterized at the molecular level. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and the minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) ranged from 25 to 1600 µg/mL. Cinnamon oil, (E)-Cinnamaldehyde, clove oil, eugenol, and baicalein had the lowest MIC and MBC values (25–100 µg/mL). MT947450 and MT947451 were sensitive to erythromycin and gentamicin but resistant to quinolones and tetracycline. Mutations in gyrA and tet(O) genes from resistant strains were confirmed by sequencing. The findings show that NPs are effective against drug-sensitive and drug-resistant Campylobacter strains. The resistance to antibiotics was confirmed at phenotypic and genotypic levels. This merits further studies to decipher the action mechanisms and synergistic activities of NPs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils)
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16 pages, 2301 KiB  
Article
Novel Antiviral and Antibacterial Activities of Hibiscus schizopetalus
by Riham A. El-Shiekh, Usama Ramadan Abdelmohsen, Hossam M. Ashour and Rehab M. Ashour
Antibiotics 2020, 9(11), 756; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antibiotics9110756 - 30 Oct 2020
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3978
Abstract
Hibiscus schizopetalus (Dyer) Hook.f. (Malvaceae) is an ornamental plant. The aim was to investigate its antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. In vitro antiviral, antibacterial, and antioxidant activities of the 70% ethanolic extract (Et-E) of the aerial parts of the plant were determined. The Dichloromethane [...] Read more.
Hibiscus schizopetalus (Dyer) Hook.f. (Malvaceae) is an ornamental plant. The aim was to investigate its antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. In vitro antiviral, antibacterial, and antioxidant activities of the 70% ethanolic extract (Et-E) of the aerial parts of the plant were determined. The Dichloromethane Fraction (DCM-F) and the n-Butanol Fraction (Bu-F) were assessed using Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The DCM-F showed higher antiviral activities against Coxsackie B4 (CoxB4) viruses (IC50 = 64.13 µg/mL) and adenoviruses (IC50 = 54.88 µg/mL) than acyclovir (IC50 = 72.79 µg/mL for CoxB4 viruses; IC50 = 91.92 µg/mL for adenoviruses). The DCM-F showed higher anti-helicobacter pylori activity (MIC = 3.9 µg/mL) than clarithromycin (MIC = 1.95 µg/mL). The DCM-F inhibited Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Type I (IC50 = 29.85 µg/mL) and HSV Type II (IC50 = 74.17 µg/mL). The Bu-F showed higher anti-mycobacterial activity (MIC = 7.81 µg/mL) than isoniazid (MIC = 0.24 µg/mL) and higher antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)(MIC = 7.81 µg/mL) than vancomycin (MIC = 3.9 µg/mL). Antioxidant assays included total antioxidant capacity (TAC), 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH), and iron reducing power. The Bu-F showed the highest antioxidant activity. Chemical profiles were analyzed using HPLC-HR–ESI–MS to identify the metabolites responsible for these biological activities. We identified more than 60 metabolites that belong to anthocyanins, flavonoids, phenolics, terpenes, sterols, and fatty acids. In conclusion, Hibiscusschizopetalus is endowed with metabolites that could be used against viruses and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. They can also be potent antioxidants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils)
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21 pages, 1650 KiB  
Article
Ayahuasca Beverages: Phytochemical Analysis and Biological Properties
by Joana Gonçalves, Ângelo Luís, Ana Gradillas, Antonia García, José Restolho, Nicolás Fernández, Fernanda Domingues, Eugenia Gallardo and Ana Paula Duarte
Antibiotics 2020, 9(11), 731; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antibiotics9110731 - 24 Oct 2020
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4673
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive beverage, originally consumed by indigenous Amazon tribes, of which consumption has been increasing worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical profile, as well as the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of decoctions of four individual [...] Read more.
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive beverage, originally consumed by indigenous Amazon tribes, of which consumption has been increasing worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical profile, as well as the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of decoctions of four individual plants, a commercial mixture and four mixtures of two individual plants used in the Ayahuasca preparation. For this purpose, a phytochemical characterization was performed, determining the content of flavonoids, total phenolic compounds, and analyzing the phenolic profile. Besides, 48 secondary metabolites were investigated by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q/TOF-MS) and their concentration estimated with real standards when present. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by both the β-carotene bleaching test and DPPH free radical scavenging assay, and the anti-inflammatory activity was determined by a protein denaturation method. Finally, the antimicrobial properties were evaluated using the disc diffusion assay, resazurin microtiter method, anti-quorum sensing and anti-biofilm activity assays. The obtained results showed that, in general, the samples have a high content of phenolic compounds and flavonoids with noticeable differences, reflecting on remarkable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Significant antimicrobial properties were also observed, with emphasis on the effect of B. caapi and P. harmala on planktonic and biofilm cells of A. baumannii, inhibiting both the biofilm formation and the production of violacein pigment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils)
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17 pages, 350 KiB  
Article
Antibacterial and Cytotoxic Activities of Ten Commercially Available Essential Oils
by Sofia Oliveira Ribeiro, Véronique Fontaine, Véronique Mathieu, Abdesselam Zhiri, Dominique Baudoux, Caroline Stévigny and Florence Souard
Antibiotics 2020, 9(10), 717; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antibiotics9100717 - 20 Oct 2020
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 5413
Abstract
There is a huge concern in the medical field concerning the emergence of bacterial resistance to antibiotics. Essential oils are a source of antibacterial compounds that can overcome this problem. Ten essential oils that are commercially available were investigated in the present study: [...] Read more.
There is a huge concern in the medical field concerning the emergence of bacterial resistance to antibiotics. Essential oils are a source of antibacterial compounds that can overcome this problem. Ten essential oils that are commercially available were investigated in the present study: ajowan, basil, German chamomile, Chinese cinnamon, coriander, clove, lemongrass, Spanish lavender, oregano and palmarosa. Their direct, synergistic and indirect antibacterial activities were evaluated against different human pathogenic Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains. To evaluate their possible use in clinics, the cytotoxicity of these essential oils was also tested on keratinocyte and epithelial cell lines. Except for the Chinese cinnamon, coriander and lemongrass, all other essential oils presented no cytotoxicity at 32 and 16 μg/mL. The highest indirect antibacterial activities were observed with the palmarosa and Spanish lavender in association with penicillin V. These two associations presented a 64-fold decrease against a resistant strain of Staphylococcus aureus, however, at a cytotoxic concentration. It can also be highlighted that when tested at a non-cytotoxic concentration, the activity of oregano in association with penicillin V presented an eight-fold decrease. These results show the interest to use essential oils in combination with antibiotics to reduce their concentrations inside drugs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils)
20 pages, 2694 KiB  
Article
Pullulan Films Containing Rockrose Essential Oil for Potential Food Packaging Applications
by Ângelo Luís, Ana Ramos and Fernanda Domingues
Antibiotics 2020, 9(10), 681; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antibiotics9100681 - 08 Oct 2020
Cited by 43 | Viewed by 3558
Abstract
Active packaging is designed to control the development of decay- and disease-causing microorganisms and is emerging as a promising technology for extending shelf-life, maintaining food safety, reducing waste, and minimizing the risks for foodborne diseases. The goal of this work was to develop [...] Read more.
Active packaging is designed to control the development of decay- and disease-causing microorganisms and is emerging as a promising technology for extending shelf-life, maintaining food safety, reducing waste, and minimizing the risks for foodborne diseases. The goal of this work was to develop and characterize bioactive pullulan-based films, containing rockrose (Cistus ladanifer) essential oil. Among other abundant compounds (camphene, bornyl acetate and trans-pinocarveol), α-pinene was identified as the major compound of rockrose essential oil (39.25%). The essential oil presented stronger antibacterial activity against Gram-positive than against Gram-negative bacteria. The antioxidant results indicate the potential of the developed films to be used to package foods susceptible to oxidation and rancification, thus improving their shelf-life. Also, this study reflects the potential of rockrose essential oil, free or incorporated in pullulan, as a promising quorum sensing inhibitor, since it was able to interrupt intercellular communication, inhibiting violacein production. Electronic microscopy images showed the antibiofilm activity of the films with rockrose essential oil that were able to influence bacterial adhesion, which may be explained by the differences in the surface free energy of the films, as also determined. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils)
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7 pages, 223 KiB  
Article
Haematology and Serum Biochemical Indices of Lambs Supplemented with Moringa oleifera, Jatropha curcas and Aloe vera Leaf Extract as Anti-Methanogenic Additives
by Abiodun Mayowa Akanmu, Abubeker Hassen and Festus Adeyemi Adejoro
Antibiotics 2020, 9(9), 601; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antibiotics9090601 - 14 Sep 2020
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2673
Abstract
Medicinal plants have been found to be effective in a wide range of applications in ruminant animals. However, some plant extracts may be toxic to animals, depending on their seconday metabolite composition and dose, and therefore, animal trials are needed to validate their [...] Read more.
Medicinal plants have been found to be effective in a wide range of applications in ruminant animals. However, some plant extracts may be toxic to animals, depending on their seconday metabolite composition and dose, and therefore, animal trials are needed to validate their safety when used as anti-methanogenic additives. This study investigated the effect of three plant extracts used as anti-methanogenic dietary additives, on the haematology and serum biochemical parameters in sheep. Methanolic extracts of Moringa oleifera (MO), Jatropha curcas (JC) and Aloe vera (AV) were orally dosed as experimental treatments for 75 days to sheep, and their effect on the haematology and serum biochemical parameters of SA Mutton Merino (SAMM) lambs were compared with sheep on a control treatment without any additive treatment. Extracts of MO, JC and AV were extracted in 100% methanol, freeze-dried, and reconstituted in distilled water. A total of 40 lambs were ranked according to their body weight into a group of four and one sheep at a time was randomly allocated into four dietary treatments which include a control treatment, and treatment with either MO, JC or AV extract. Lambs were drenched twice daily with doses equivalent to 50 mg/kg dry matter intake (DMI) based on previous week feed consumption. Blood samples were collected via jugular vein puncture and analysed for haematology and serum biochemistry parameters, using standard procedures. The results of the haematological analysis showed that most haematological parameters were not affected by plant extract used as anti-methanogenic additives (p > 0.05), except for higher white blood cell (WBC) and lymphocytes counts recorded in control lambs and lambs in the AV treatment. All serum biochemical properties (except alkaline phosphatase) were not different (p > 0.05) between the control and lambs treated with plant extracts. Alkaline phosphatase was influenced by the plant extract (p < 0.05), with lambs receiving MO, JC and AV having lower alkaline phosphatase concentrations compared to lambs on the control diet without any additive. The result of the study showed that extracts of MO, JC and AV were not toxic to sheep when used as antimethanogenic additives at the recommended dose of 50 mg/kg dry matter feed which had proved previously to be effective in reducing enteric methane emission. Therefore, these plant extracts could be used safely as alternative dietary additives to reduce enteric methane emission and boost the productivity of SA Mutton Merino sheep. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils)
16 pages, 5711 KiB  
Article
Phytochemical Composition and In Vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Essential Oils from the Lamiaceae Family against Streptococcus agalactiae and Candida albicans Biofilms
by Ramona Iseppi, Roberta Tardugno, Virginia Brighenti, Stefania Benvenuti, Carla Sabia, Federica Pellati and Patrizia Messi
Antibiotics 2020, 9(9), 592; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antibiotics9090592 - 10 Sep 2020
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3820
Abstract
The antimicrobial activity of different essential oils (EOs) from the Lamiaceae family was evaluated on Streptococcus agalactiae, Candida albicans, and lactobacilli. S. agalactiae is the main cause of severe neonatal infections, such as sepsis, meningitis, and pneumonia. C. albicans is a [...] Read more.
The antimicrobial activity of different essential oils (EOs) from the Lamiaceae family was evaluated on Streptococcus agalactiae, Candida albicans, and lactobacilli. S. agalactiae is the main cause of severe neonatal infections, such as sepsis, meningitis, and pneumonia. C. albicans is a primary causative agent of vulvovaginal candidiasis, a multifactorial infectious disease of the lower female reproductive tract. Lactobacilli represent the dominant bacterial species of the vaginal flora and constitute the natural defense against pathogens. On the basis of the preliminary results, the attention was focused on the EOs from Lavandula x intermedia Emeric ex Loisel. and Mentha arvensis L. By using gas ghromatography (GS) retention data and mass spectra, it was possible to identify more than 90% of the total composition of the EO samples. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and anti-biofilm activity of the two EOs were determined against all isolated strains, using the EOs by themselves or in combination with each other and with drugs (erythromycin and fluconazole). The results showed a good antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity of both EOs and a synergistic effect, leading to the best results against all the strains, resulted using the combinations EOs/EOs and antimicrobials/EOs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils)
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9 pages, 1144 KiB  
Article
Experimental Parameters Influence the Observed Antimicrobial Response of Oak Wood (Quercus petraea)
by Muhammad Tanveer Munir, Hélène Pailhories, Matthieu Eveillard, Mark Irle, Florence Aviat, Michel Federighi and Christophe Belloncle
Antibiotics 2020, 9(9), 535; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antibiotics9090535 - 24 Aug 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4361
Abstract
The present investigation aimed to utilize a direct wood disc diffusion method to study the influence of plane of cutting, cutting method, sterilization method, and origin of tree on the antimicrobial activity of wood material. Six oak wood trees (Quercus petraea) [...] Read more.
The present investigation aimed to utilize a direct wood disc diffusion method to study the influence of plane of cutting, cutting method, sterilization method, and origin of tree on the antimicrobial activity of wood material. Six oak wood trees (Quercus petraea) were collected from 3 different locations in France. They were cut into 4 mm thick slices with either transverse (RT), tangential (LT) or radial (LR) faces. Round discs (diameter 9.95 ± 0.1 mm) were cut from the slices via a laser machine or a manual punch machine, and were sterilized with gamma irradiation (25 kGy) or autoclaving (121 °C). The antimicrobial activity of wood was tested using a direct diffusion method against Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii isolates. The zone of inhibition around the wooden disc was recorded following the recommendations used for antibiotics tests. The results showed that S. aureus was more susceptible than A. baumannii, to the chemicals that diffused from the wood. The transverse face discs exhibited higher antimicrobial activity. Samples that had been sterilized by autoclaving showed significantly (p < 0.05) lower antimicrobial activity, whereas the cutting method and origin of tree did not influence the antimicrobial activity of wood material. Therefore, the choice of sterilization method and cutting planes must be taken into account while studying and interpreting the antibacterial properties of wood material. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils)
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14 pages, 2095 KiB  
Article
Antifungal Activity against Fusarium culmorum of Stevioside, Silybum marianum Seed Extracts, and Their Conjugate Complexes
by Laura Buzón-Durán, Jesús Martín-Gil, María del Carmen Ramos-Sánchez, Eduardo Pérez-Lebeña, José Luis Marcos-Robles, Ángel Fombellida-Villafruela and Pablo Martín-Ramos
Antibiotics 2020, 9(8), 440; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antibiotics9080440 - 24 Jul 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3245
Abstract
Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a disease that poses a major challenge in cereal production that has important food and feed safety implications due to trichothecene contamination. In this study, the effect of stevioside—a glycoside found in the leaves of candyleaf (Stevia [...] Read more.
Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a disease that poses a major challenge in cereal production that has important food and feed safety implications due to trichothecene contamination. In this study, the effect of stevioside—a glycoside found in the leaves of candyleaf (Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni)—was evaluated in vitro against Fusarium culmorum (W.G. Smith) Sacc., alone and in combination (in a 1:1 molar ratio) with polyphenols obtained from milk thistle seeds (Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn). Different concentrations, ranging from 32 to 512 µg·mL−1, were assayed, finding EC50 and EC90 inhibitory concentrations of 156 and 221 µg·mL−1, respectively, for the treatment based only on stevioside, and EC50 and EC90 values of 123 and 160 µg·mL−1, respectively, for the treatment based on the stevioside–polyphenol conjugate complexes. Colony formation inhibition results were consistent, reaching full inhibition at 256 µg·mL−1. Given that synergistic behavior was observed for this latter formulation (SF = 1.43, according to Wadley’s method), it was further assessed for grain protection at storage, mostly directed against mycotoxin contamination caused by the aforementioned phytopathogen, confirming that it could inhibit fungal growth and avoid trichothecene contamination. Moreover, seed tests showed that the treatment did not affect the percentage of germination, and it resulted in a lower incidence of root rot caused by the pathogen in Kamut and winter wheat seedlings. Hence, the application of these stevioside–S. marianum seed extract conjugate complexes may be put forward as a promising and environmentally friendly treatment for the protection of cereal crops and stored grain against FHB. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils)
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10 pages, 364 KiB  
Article
The Variability of Thymol and Carvacrol Contents Reveals the Level of Antibacterial Activity of the Essential Oils from Different Accessions of Oliveria decumbens
by Tahereh Khoshbakht, Akbar Karami, Aminallah Tahmasebi and Filippo Maggi
Antibiotics 2020, 9(7), 409; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antibiotics9070409 - 14 Jul 2020
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2864
Abstract
Oliveria decumbens (Apiaceae) is an aromatic herb traditionally employed in the Persian medicine for the treatment of infectious and gastrointestinal disorders. In the present study, we analyzed the chemical composition of essential oils obtained from different Iranian populations and evaluated their efficacy on [...] Read more.
Oliveria decumbens (Apiaceae) is an aromatic herb traditionally employed in the Persian medicine for the treatment of infectious and gastrointestinal disorders. In the present study, we analyzed the chemical composition of essential oils obtained from different Iranian populations and evaluated their efficacy on a panel of human pathogens (Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli), probiotic (Bacillus subtilis), and phytopathogens (Clavibacter michiganensis, Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens, Xanthomonas citri, and Agrobacterium tumefaciens). The gas chromatographic-mass spectrometry analysis put in evidence four main volatile constituents such as thymol (20.3–36.4%), carvacrol (18.8–33.1%), γ-terpinene (10.6–25.9%), and p-cymene (9.5–17.3%), though with significant variability from an essential oil to another. Notably, the oils from the populations sited in Nourabad Mamasani and Dehdasht showed the highest amount of the phenolic monoterpenes thymol (36.4 and 35.2%, respectively) and carvacrol (33.1 and 30.6%, respectively). The antibacterial activity of O. decumbens essential oils was assessed by the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) methods, showing high activity for the samples from Nourabad Mamasani and Dehdasht populations exhibiting high level of the above phenolics. The obtained MIC and MBC values (mg/ml) were in the ranges 0.0625–2 mg/ml and 1–16 mg/ml, respectively. Noteworthy, in some cases, the antibacterial activity of O. decumbens essential oils was higher than that of chloramphenicol used as positive control. The average MBCs displayed by the O. decumbens samples showed that C. flaccumfaciens had the highest sensitivity to the essential oils. Based on these results, our work shed light on selected O. decumbens populations deserving proper breeding and cultivation strategies in order to warrantee production of bioactive essential oils to be used at pharmaceutical and agricultural level to combat several pathogens. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils)
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16 pages, 448 KiB  
Article
Antimicrobial Spectrum of Titroleane™: A New Potent Anti-Infective Agent
by Bianca Johansen, Raphaël E. Duval and Jean-Christophe Sergere
Antibiotics 2020, 9(7), 391; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antibiotics9070391 - 08 Jul 2020
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4667
Abstract
Tea Tree oil (TTO) is well known for its numerous good properties but might be also irritating or toxic when used topically or ingested, thus limiting the number of possible applications in Humans. The aim of the study was to characterize the antimicrobial [...] Read more.
Tea Tree oil (TTO) is well known for its numerous good properties but might be also irritating or toxic when used topically or ingested, thus limiting the number of possible applications in Humans. The aim of the study was to characterize the antimicrobial spectrum as well as the toxicity of Titroleane™, a new anti-infective agent obtained from TTO but cleared of its toxic monoterpenes part. The susceptibility to Titroleane™ of various pathogens (bacteria and fungi) encountered in animal and human health was studied in comparison with that of TTO. Antimicrobial screening was carried out using the broth microdilution method. Activities against aerobic, anaerobic, fastidious and non-fastidious microorganisms were performed. For all microorganisms tested, the MIC values for Titroleane™ ranged from 0.08% to 2.5%, except for Campylobacter jejuni, and Aspergillus niger. In particular, Titroleane™ showed good efficacy against skin and soft tissue infection pathogens, such as methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), intra-abdominal infections and oral pathogens, as well as fish farming pathogens. Toxicity testing showed little and similar cytotoxicities between TTO and Titroleane™ of 37% and 23%, respectively at a concentration of 0.025% (v/v). Finally, we demonstrated that the antimicrobial activity of Titroleane™ is similar to that of TTO. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils)
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9 pages, 246 KiB  
Article
Anti-Bacterial Effects of Essential Oils against Uropathogenic Bacteria
by Maria Loose, Emmelie Pilger and Florian Wagenlehner
Antibiotics 2020, 9(6), 358; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antibiotics9060358 - 25 Jun 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4454
Abstract
Given the increasing antimicrobial resistance in urinary tract infections (UTI), alternative strategies need to be investigated. Determination of minimal inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations of essential oils from cajeput, lemongrass, tea tree, and thyme in artificial urine, revealed bactericidal activity of all four tested [...] Read more.
Given the increasing antimicrobial resistance in urinary tract infections (UTI), alternative strategies need to be investigated. Determination of minimal inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations of essential oils from cajeput, lemongrass, tea tree, and thyme in artificial urine, revealed bactericidal activity of all four tested essential oils against seven uropathogenic species with values ranging between 0.78–50 mg/mL. Tea tree and thyme essential oils were more efficient than lemongrass and cajeput. In addition, antibiotic-resistant strains showed similar susceptibility as antibiotic-sensitive strains, suggesting no cross-resistance between antibiotics and these essential oils. Checkerboard assays revealed a synergistic activity of the combination of thyme and tea tree. Furthermore, the combination with thyme and tea tree essential oils increased the activity of fosfomycin and pivmecillinam, but not nitrofurantoin, against Escherichia coli. This study provides a basis for further investigation of the potential of thyme and tea tree oil as an alternative or additional treatment of UTI. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils)
12 pages, 3726 KiB  
Article
Using GFP-Tagged Escherichia coli to Investigate the Persistence of Fecal Bacteria in Vegetated Wetlands: An Experimental Approach
by Emilia Chiapponi, Charles P. Henriot, Xavier Bertrand, Didier Hocquet and Gudrun Bornette
Antibiotics 2020, 9(6), 335; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antibiotics9060335 - 18 Jun 2020
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2998
Abstract
The contamination of surface water by pathogenic bacteria of human origin is an important public health issue. Wetlands can be contaminated with fecal bacteria by water originating from different sources, such as wastewater treatment plants and agriculture. Escherichia coli is a commensal of [...] Read more.
The contamination of surface water by pathogenic bacteria of human origin is an important public health issue. Wetlands can be contaminated with fecal bacteria by water originating from different sources, such as wastewater treatment plants and agriculture. Escherichia coli is a commensal of the human gut flora and the major indication of fecal contamination in surface water. Little is known about the association between fecal bacteria and submerged macrophytes and how this may influence the water quality. We questioned whether macrophytes enhance or inhibit the bacterial growth in wetlands. For this purpose, we grew four different species of macrophytes (Mentha aquatica, Baldellia ranunculoides, Sparganium emersum and Elodea canadensis, in mono- or multispecies cultures) in aquatic rhizotrons and inoculated the devices with a fluorescent strain of Escherichia coli (producing a green fluorescent protein) to simulate the fecal contamination of wetlands. Bacterial survival was monitored by measuring the fluorescence for 19 days. We found (i) that contaminated sediments did not release E. coli in the water column in lentic conditions and (ii) that monocultures of E. canadensis, M. aquatica and S. emersum reduced the E. coli concentration in the water column. This suggests that aquatic plant species may be used in constructed wetlands to clear surface freshwater from bacteria of fecal origin. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils)
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11 pages, 634 KiB  
Article
Chemotherapeutic Potential of Carthamus Oxycantha Root Extract as Antidiarrheal and In Vitro Antibacterial Activities
by Muhammad Ikram, Amany Magdy Beshbishy, Muhammad Kifayatullah, Adedayo Olukanni, Muhammad Zahoor, Muhammad Naeem, Muhammad Amin, Masood Shah, Ahmed S. Abdelaziz, Riaz Ullah, Ramzi A. Mothana, Nasir A. Siddiqui and Gaber El-Saber Batiha
Antibiotics 2020, 9(5), 226; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antibiotics9050226 - 01 May 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3102
Abstract
Our research work was designed to investigate the curative and preventive effects of Carthamus oxycantha root extract against diarrhea and microorganisms. For the antibacterial experiment, the agar well diffusion method was used against standard bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeroginosa, [...] Read more.
Our research work was designed to investigate the curative and preventive effects of Carthamus oxycantha root extract against diarrhea and microorganisms. For the antibacterial experiment, the agar well diffusion method was used against standard bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeroginosa, and Salmonella typhi, while for the assessment of antidiarrheal activity, castor oil and the magnesium sulfate-induced diarrhea method was used on albino, laboratory-bred (BALB/c) mice at a dose rate of 200 and 400 mg/kg (body weight, b.w) orally. The methanol extract of C. oxycantha significantly (p < 0.001) decreased the frequency of defecation, and wet stools in a dose depended on the manner of after receiving magnesium sulfate (2 g/kg (b.w)) and castor oil (1.0 mL/mice). Furthermore, the extract of C. oxycantha showed concentration-dependent antimicrobial properties against S. aureus followed by S. typhi, E. coli, and P. aeroginosa bacterial strains, with inhibitions ranging from 10.5–15 mm. These findings show significant results that C. oxycantha is effective as an antidiarrheal and antibacterial agent. However, further works are needed to establish its mode of action. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils)
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19 pages, 361 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Techniques and Solvents on the Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Potential of Extracts from Acacia dealbata and Olea europaea
by Anabela Borges, Helena José, Vera Homem and Manuel Simões
Antibiotics 2020, 9(2), 48; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antibiotics9020048 - 28 Jan 2020
Cited by 65 | Viewed by 10571
Abstract
Ethnopharmacological use of plant natural extracts has been known since ancient times. The optimization of plant molecule extraction is fundamental in obtaining relevant extraction yields. The main purpose of this study was to understand the role of different extraction techniques (solid-liquid, ultrasound, Soxhlet, [...] Read more.
Ethnopharmacological use of plant natural extracts has been known since ancient times. The optimization of plant molecule extraction is fundamental in obtaining relevant extraction yields. The main purpose of this study was to understand the role of different extraction techniques (solid-liquid, ultrasound, Soxhlet, and microwave) and solvents (water, methanol, ethanol, acetone, dichloromethane, and hexane) on the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of extracts from Olea europaea (olive) and Acacia dealbata (mimosa). Crude plant extracts were evaluated for their antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli by the disk diffusion method. The antioxidant capacity of the extracts was determined by ABTS (2,2-azinobis (3-ethyl-benzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) methods. In terms of extraction yield, ultrasound extraction and the solvents methanol, acetone (O. europaea) or water (A. dealbata) were found to be the best options. However, ethanol and acetone proved to be the best solvents to extract compounds with antimicrobial activity and antioxidant capacity, respectively (regardless of the extraction method employed). Soxhlet and microwave were the best techniques to extract compounds with antimicrobial activity, whereas any of the tested techniques showed the ability to extract compounds with antioxidant capacity. In most of the cases, both plant extracts (mimosa and olive) were more efficient against S. aureus than E. coli. In the present study, both mimosa and olive leaf crude extracts proved to have antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, increasing the demand of these natural products as a source of compounds with health benefits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils)
10 pages, 270 KiB  
Article
Chemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of Essential Oils from the Algerian Endemic Origanum glandulosum Desf. against Multidrug-Resistant Uropathogenic E. coli Isolates
by Larbi Zakaria Nabti, Farida Sahli, Hocine Laouar, Ahmed Olowo-okere, Joice Guileine Nkuimi Wandjou and Filippo Maggi
Antibiotics 2020, 9(1), 29; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antibiotics9010029 - 15 Jan 2020
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 4385
Abstract
Antibiotics are becoming ineffective against resistant bacteria. The use of essential oils (EOs) may constitute an alternative solution to fight against multidrug-resistant bacteria. This study aims to determine the chemical composition of EOs from five populations of the endemic Algerian Origanum glandulosum Desf. [...] Read more.
Antibiotics are becoming ineffective against resistant bacteria. The use of essential oils (EOs) may constitute an alternative solution to fight against multidrug-resistant bacteria. This study aims to determine the chemical composition of EOs from five populations of the endemic Algerian Origanum glandulosum Desf. and to investigate their potential antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant uropathogenic E. coli strains. The EOs were obtained by hydrodistillation and their composition was investigated by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The antibacterial activity was evaluated by the disc diffusion method against eight E. coli strains (six uropathogenic resistant and two referenced susceptible strains). Minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations (MIC/MBC) were obtained by the broth microdilution method. The main EO components were thymol (15.2–56.4%), carvacrol (2.8–59.6%), γ-terpinene (9.9–21.8%) and p-cymene (8.5–13.9%). The antibacterial tests showed that all the EOs were active against all the strains, including the multidrug-resistant strains. The EO from the Bordj location, which contained the highest amount of carvacrol (59.6%), showed the highest antibacterial activity (inhibition diameters from 12 to 24.5 mm at a dilution of 1/10). To our knowledge, this is the first description of the activity of O. glandulosum EOs against resistant uropathogenic strains. Our study suggests that O. glandulosum EO could be used in some clinical situations to treat or prevent infections (e.g., urinary tract infections) with multidrug-resistant strains. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils)
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