Antimicrobial Activity of Essential Oils

Abstract

The rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens subsequent to antibiotic use, associated with increased mortality and a significant economic problem, has prompted researchers to exploit novel compounds that are simultaneously effective and safe and with the capacity to control the emergence of MDR microorganisms. The study of natural plant-derived products has been a successful approach for the discovery of new therapeutics. Essential oils (EOs) are a complex mixture of hydrocarbons and oxygenated compounds, in which the active compounds of these EOs can be terpenes (mainly monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes), terpenoids, or phenylpropenes. EOs are recognized for their bioactive properties, including their antimicrobial abilities. In this chapter, EOs are described from their chemical properties, extraction techniques from plants, and applications. Mechanisms of action and biochemical and molecular targets of EOs in bacteria, fungi, and virus are also discussed. Besides the well-documented antimicrobial activity of EOs, other significant biological properties of these compounds including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer, which make them promising agents in the treatment of different diseases, are described.