Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity of Plant Extracts and Their Pharmacological Applications

Dear Colleagues,

The exploration of the antibacterial and antioxidant properties of plant extracts has generated a lot of interest in medicine. Specifically, the possible medicinal benefits provided by these extracts have been evaluated, especially in combating microbial infections linked to oxidative stress.

Plant extracts contain antioxidants that scavenge free radicals, preventing damage to cells and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. In addition, plant-derived antimicrobials possess inhibitory effects against a variety of diseases, opening up exciting possibilities for the development of new pharmaceuticals.

Polyphenols are a diverse group of natural compounds found abundantly in plants. Flavonoids, a type of polyphenol, are abundant in fruits, vegetables, tea, and red wine. They possess strong antioxidant properties and are believed to contribute to the health benefits associated with plant-based diets. Flavonoids can help protect cells from damage, support the immune system, and have anti-inflammatory effects. Some flavonoids also exhibit antibacterial properties, helping to combat infections. Anthocyanins represent a type of polyphenol responsible for the vibrant red, purple, and blue colors in many fruits, vegetables, and flowers. They are potent antioxidants and have been linked to numerous health benefits, including cardiovascular health and anti-inflammatory effects. Some plant polyphenols, including anthocyanins, have been found to possess antibacterial properties.

Carotenoids are natural pigments found in various fruits, vegetables, and plants and possess important biological activities. They have been studied for their antibacterial effects against various pathogens and can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria, potentially by disrupting bacterial membranes or interfering with essential bacterial processes. This antibacterial activity makes carotenoids promising candidates for natural antimicrobial agents. Plant extracts rich in carotenoids are thus valuable in both traditional and modern medicine. They can be used in various forms such as dietary supplements and topical creams or incorporated into food products to provide health benefits. Furthermore, their natural origin and relatively low toxicity compared to synthetic compounds make them attractive for pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications.

Plant extracts containing a combination of carotenoids along with other phytochemicals (like flavonoids and phenolics) may exhibit enhanced antibacterial and antioxidant effects. These compounds can work synergistically, boosting each other's efficacy. Incorporating plant extracts rich in these compounds into the diet or using them in topical applications could potentially offer natural alternatives for promoting health and combating bacterial infections. However, it is essential to note that more studies are needed to fully understand the effectiveness and optimal use of these plant-derived compounds for antibacterial and antioxidant purposes.

For this Special Issue of Antioxidants, we invite authors to submit their most recent studies or reviews on the effects of plant extracts which contain significant antibacterial and antioxidant components. We are also interested in publications that emphasize pharmaceutical applications. Research articles may also contain both in vitro and in vivo studies.

Prof. Dr. Andrea Bunea
Prof. Dr. Sanda Andrei
Prof. Dr. Mihai Cosmin Cenariu
Guest Editors

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• plant extracts
• polyphenols
• carotenoids
• antioxidants
• antimicrobials
• oxidative stress
• microbial infections
• herbal remedies
• synergistic effects
• therapeutic efficacy
• safety profiles
• natural alternatives