Advancements in plant-based antimicrobial therapies have emerged as a promising frontier in combating both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial pathogens, addressing the growing global concern over antibiotic resistance. Extensive research has identified a diverse array of bioactive phytochemicals—such as alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, and essential oils—that exhibit potent antibacterial properties by targeting various cellular mechanisms including membrane disruption, enzyme inhibition, protein synthesis interference, and quorum sensing disruption. Unlike conventional antibiotics, plant-derived compounds often possess multifaceted modes of action, reducing the likelihood of resistance development. Innovations in extraction techniques, such as supercritical fluid extraction and green nanotechnology-based delivery systems, have significantly enhanced the bioavailability, stability, and targeted efficacy of these natural antimicrobials, synergistic combinations of plant extracts with traditional antibiotics have shown to potentiate antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant strains, offering a dual strategy for effective pathogen control. These advancements not only open new avenues for therapeutic applications in medicine and food safety but also underscore the importance of exploring the vast phytochemical diversity of medicinal plants for sustainable, eco-friendly antimicrobial solutions.
