Discovery of New Natural Phytocompounds: The Modern Tools to Fight Against Traditional Bacterial Pathogens

Ongoing competition between disease-causing bacteria and human hosts has resulted in the discovery of a wide array of antibacterials. The advent of antibacterials ushered in a promising period in the realm of microbiology, but its brilliance was short-lived and soon diminished. The excessive and incorrect use of antibacterials results in limited selection pressure on the targeted microorganisms, which in turn promotes the evolution of microbes instead of killing them. Consequently, antibacterial resistance has developed and given rise to strains that are resistant to many drugs, leading to a significant increase in mortality rates. The current review delves into the potential of novel natural phytocompounds as innovative solutions to combat these potential bacterial threats. The review begins by showcasing the modus operandi of conventional antibacterial drugs followed by addressing the mechanisms of resistance to antibacterial agents, which have significantly lowered the efficacy of conventional treatments. In contrast, the review explores the mechanism of antibacterial activity of plant-derived phytochemicals, unraveling the various ways in which natural compounds interact with bacterial targets. Furthermore, the review examines the synergism between plant phytochemicals and conventional antibiotics, showcasing the efficacy of this combinatorial approach in overcoming resistance. The review concludes by summarizing the current research and offering valuable insights into challenges in the use of plant phytochemicals as antibacterial therapeutics. This comprehensive overview reinforces the promise of incorporating modern scientific tools with traditional phytotherapy to develop effective strategies against resistant bacterial pathogens.