Essential Oils and Phytoconstituents as Novel Antimicrobial Strategies against Drug-Resistant Pathogens

Multidrug resistance (MDR) represents a significant global challenge in the treatment of acute and chronic microbial infections. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics have been major contributors to the rising prevalence of resistant pathogens, leading to reduced effectiveness of conventional antimicrobial agents. Consequently, there is an urgent need to explore novel and effective therapeutic alternatives. Plant-derived phytocompounds and essential oils have emerged as promising antimicrobial agents owing to their broad-spectrum activity against clinically relevant pathogens. This review critically evaluates the role of plant extracts, phytochemicals and essential oils against a wide range of drug-resistant microorganisms, with particular emphasis on their mechanisms of action, synergistic interactions with conventional antibiotics and emerging delivery strategies designed to enhance bioavailability. Overall, these natural compounds demonstrate considerable potential as adjuncts or alternatives in combating antimicrobial resistance; however, further standardisation and well-designed clinical studies are required to support their widespread clinical application.