Phytochemical Composition and In Vitro Antibacterial Activity of the Essential Oil from <i>Lippia grata</i> Schauer (Verbenaceae) against <i>Staphylococcus</i> spp. from Caprine Mastitis

<i>Staphylococcus</i> spp. are the primary pathogens responsible for caprine mastitis. These bacteria can form biofilms, hindering treatment and compromising milk production. In this context, plant-based natural products derived from <i>Lippia grata</i> Schauer have emerged as a potential alternative for treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial and antibiofilm properties of the essential oil (EO) of <i>L. grata</i> against <i>Staphylococcus</i> spp. isolated from caprine mastitis. The EO was obtained by hydrodistillation, and its chemical constituents were identified by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Fourteen clinical isolates of <i>Staphylococcus</i> spp. and two standard strains were tested. Antibacterial activity was assessed using broth microdilution. Biofilm production and the interference capacity of the EO were evaluated using a microplate adherence assay. The EO of <i>L. grata</i> yielded 5.47%, with carvacrol (78%), thymol (7.1%), and <i>p</i>-cymene (3.16%) as the main constituents. It exhibited inhibitory and bactericidal effects at concentrations ranging from 256 to 512 μg mL^-1. All isolates formed biofilms, and the EO reduced biofilm formation in two isolates classified as moderate and strong producers. Additionally, it disrupted pre-established biofilms in all isolates. Therefore, the EO of <i>L. grata</i> exhibits antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities and represents a promising alternative for treating caprine mastitis, particularly in infections involving biofilm formation.