As global concerns about antibiotic-resistant bacteria rise, a recent study has highlighted the potential role of natural compounds found in turmeric and rhubarb in slowing the growth of some of these dangerous germs, though they are not a substitute for conventional medical treatment.
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The study, conducted by researchers at Utah State University, suggests that certain plant-derived compounds may help limit the spread of drug-resistant bacteria, especially in water systems.
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are organisms that have developed the ability to survive drugs designed to kill them, making some infections more difficult and dangerous to treat. This phenomenon is considered one of the greatest global health threats, particularly as the effectiveness of many common antibiotics declines.
During the study, researchers identified nine multi-drug-resistant bacterial strains in wastewater, some of which can transfer resistance genes to more dangerous bacteria, paving the way for the emergence of “superbugs” that are difficult to contain.
When testing a range of natural compounds, two stood out in particular: curcumin, found in turmeric, and emodin, extracted from rhubarb.
The results showed that these two compounds successfully slowed bacterial cell growth and prevented the formation of biofilms—bacterial clusters that make germs more aggressive and harder to eliminate.
The study’s lead researcher explained that preventing biofilm formation may help curb the spread of bacteria before they become a direct health threat to humans.
Why They Are Not a Substitute for Antibiotics
Despite the encouraging results, researchers emphasize that these compounds cannot replace antibiotics in treating infections. Their potential role is limited to helping slow the growth of certain bacteria, particularly in non-clinical environments, such as water systems.
Researchers suggest that theoretically incorporating these compounds into drinking water treatment could support traditional disinfection methods, like chlorine, in reducing bacterial activity without relying on them alone.
Recent data indicate that hospital-acquired, antibiotic-resistant infections rose by about 20% during the COVID-19 pandemic and remain above pre-pandemic levels.
Although these bacteria do not necessarily make infections more lethal, they reduce recovery chances and prolong treatment, placing additional burdens on patients and healthcare systems.
Doctors stress that the best way to tackle this crisis is the responsible use of antibiotics, avoiding them for viral illnesses, and adhering strictly to the prescribed doses and treatment durations.
Preventive measures also include regular handwashing, staying up to date with vaccinations, avoiding sharing personal items, and following public health guidelines.
