A review on in vitro activity of plant extracts against nontuberculous mycobacteria

Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are increasingly recognized as significant opportunistic pathogens that cause a range of lung and non-lung infections, particularly in individuals with compromised immunity. Traditional NTM medications are frequently prolonged, multi-drug regimens and are associated with side effects and increasing drug resistance, making the need for novel therapies imperative. Bioactive compounds are a promising source of antimicrobials because of their chemical diversity and potentially favorable safety profiles. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the current knowledge on the in vitro activity of various plant extracts against NTM species. Studies investigating the antimycobacterial and synergistic effects of plant extracts are examined, with a focus on their mechanisms of action, bioactive components, and potential for future drug development. By identifying gaps in the existing research and proposing directions for further investigation, this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the potential of plant-based interventions in the control and prevention of NTM infections.