Review Paper:
Embracing Nature:
Anti-Biofilm Herbal Compounds against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) used in Tuberculosis
Treatment
Virdi Vinny, Singh Jagriti, Sharma Rolee and Verma Dipesh Kumar
Res. J. Biotech.; Vol. 21(2); 328-334;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/212rjbt3280334; (2026)
Abstract
The rise of multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) strains has increased
the global burden of tuberculosis (TB), making the investigation of alternate therapeutic
options necessary. Using herbal substances with anti-biofilm characteristics is
one possible approach. Antibiotic resistance and the duration of chronic infections
are greatly influenced by biofilms. This review looks at the potential of different
herbal ingredients to fight Mtb biofilms. Curcumin, hypericin, quercetin, ursolic
acid, thymoquinone and berberine are important herbal components that are emphasized
for their noteworthy anti-biofilm qualities. Through a variety of methods, such
as quorum sensing modulation, biofilm matrix synthesis inhibition and immune response
amplification, these drugs diminish bacterial viability, limit biofilm development
and break existing biofilms.
To sum up, these herbal remedies provide a comprehensive strategy for treating tuberculosis
that targets the bacterial cells as well as the biofilm matrix. Including phyto
therapeutic substances in current treatment plans may improve effectiveness, lower
drug resistance and lessen adverse effects linked to long-term antibiotic use. To
maximize the usage of these drugs, to investigate synergistic effects and to assess
their clinical usefulness, more research is required. In the fight against tuberculosis,
this review highlights the potential of herbal anti-biofilm compounds as a promising
non-antibiotic approach.
