Exploring plant-based therapies for tuberculosis: A comprehensive review of natural alternatives for effective treatment

Praveena, K. and Bharath, S. and Boominathan, G. and Dhinakaran, A. and Gopinath, S. and Singh, M. Gowtham and Imayaa, E. and Naveenkumar, S. and Ponni, V. and Saraswathi, S. (2025) Exploring plant-based therapies for tuberculosis: A comprehensive review of natural alternatives for effective treatment. World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 21 (2). pp. 114-132. ISSN 2582-5542

Tuberculosis (TB), is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, continues to challenge global health systems, compounded by the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains and the limitations of existing therapies. In response, plant-based approaches offer a promising alternative, leveraging bioactive compounds with anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. This review highlights the pharmacological potential of medicinal plants, including Curcuma longa, Azadirachta indica, and Acalypha indica, in combating TB. These plants exhibit mechanisms such as disrupting mycobacterium cell wall synthesis, enhancing host immunity, and reducing inflammation. By integrating plant-derived compounds with conventional therapies, the potential for more effective, sustainable, and accessible TB treatments emerges. Further research into these bioactive molecules and their mechanisms of action is essential for overcoming current therapeutic barriers and advancing global TB control.