Plant-based compositions for the treatment of local and topical bacterial infections: a patent review

Abstract

Aim: To examine recent patents related to plants with antimicrobial effects. Methods: Our investigation was carried out using the Espacenet database, searching patents related to International Patent Classification (IPC) codes A61P31/04, and A61K36/00 between 2008 and 2023. Results: The study began with 360 patents, of which 15 were found to be duplicates; 144 were not related to the research topic and six were not available. Then, 48 patents were related to other administration routes. The final selection was 47 patents related to local administration compositions. The potential for these herbal compositions to be marketed as over-the-counter medicines was evident. Conclusion: Developing new plant-origin anti-infective agents could provide promising solutions for combating resistant infections and offer accessible treatment options.

Summary points

• The investment of resources, along with knowledge of indigenous species in Eastern countries, has provided novel results and new employment opportunities.

• Promising antimicrobial activity compounds may be present in lesser known plant species.

• Plant-based compounds could provide novel formulation excipients.

• The delivery form of anti-infective active ingredients is associated with nonhomogeneous dosage forms that enhance their functionality and allow for prolonged integrity.

• Compositions cannot only exhibit anti-infective effects but can also serve as a source of complementary and supplementary therapeutic opportunities for skin and membrane conditions.

• Plant-derived antibacterial compounds can provide effective solutions against opportunistic infections and help strengthen the body's defenses.

Keywords: :

• antimicrobial resistance
• bacteria
• herbal medicine
• patents
• topical

Financial disclosure

The authors have no financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

Competing interests disclosure

The authors have no competing interests or relevant affiliations with any organization or entity with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

Writing disclosure

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.

Acknowledgments

The authors acknowledge the Universidad Nacional de Colombia and the Federal University of Bahia for making the ‘Beyond Research’ project possible and allowing the development of the present review. The authors also acknowledge the Sistema Nacional de Bibliotecas (SINAB) of the Universidad Nacional de Colombia and the professors involved for their guidance and support.