Natural Product-Based Treatment for Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by the bacterial organism Mycobacterium tuberculosis, has remained a persistent global health challenge, profoundly impacted millions of lives and posed a significant threat to public health worldwide. Despite notable strides in medical research, TB continues to be a formidable issue, particularly in underdeveloped nations. The existing arsenal of tuberculosis treatment options is notably limited, and the emergence of multi- and extensively drug-resistant TB strains further complicates the situation. The escalating costs of new pharmaceuticals and the adverse effects associated with current prescription treatments have prompted a compelling need to explore alternative approaches. In response, attention has increasingly turned towards investigating natural substances as supplementary treatment options. Derived from diverse biological sources, these natural products, including plant extracts, microbial metabolites, and compounds from marine origins, are gaining popularity as potential complements or substitutes for established anti-mycobacterial interventions. This exploration represents a promising avenue for addressing the complexities of TB treatment while considering cost-effectiveness and mitigating adverse drug reactions.