By Adewusi O.MichaeI
In the face of rising antibiotic resistance, researchers around the world are urgently seeking alternatives to combat bacteria that are no longer sensitive to traditional treatments. One such effort is being led by Pharm. Adewusi Olufemi Michael, who is conducting a study on the antibacterial properties of Origanum vulgare, commonly known as oregano. This study explores the potential of the herb to offer a solution to the growing global health crisis of bacterial-resistant infections. The promising nature of this research suggests that the commonly used culinary herb could play a significant role in future treatments.
Antibiotic resistance has emerged as one of the most critical challenges in modern day medicine. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics have caused many bacterial strains to evolve, becoming resistant to drugs that were once effective. This means common infections are becoming harder to treat, leading to longer hospital stays, higher medical costs, and increased mortality. In light of this, the search for alternative treatments has become a priority for scientists and healthcare professionals.
Origanum vulgare has long been recognised for its medicinal properties, particularly for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. Traditionally used in herbal medicine, oregano is believed to possess compounds that can inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms. Pharm. Adewusi’s research aims to investigate these antibacterial properties more rigorously to determine if oregano can be developed into a viable treatment for antibiotic-resistant infections.
The study, titled “Investigating the Antibacterial Efficacy of the Aqueous and Ethanolic Extracts of Origanum vulgare Leaves in Rats”, focuses on two different forms of extract derived from the plant: aqueous (water-based) and ethanolic (alcohol-based). These extracts are being tested on Wistar rats, a commonly used animal model in scientific research, to evaluate their effectiveness against bacterial infections. Through controlled experiments, the research team is examining how well the extracts fight off bacterial invaders in comparison to conventional antibiotics.
Initial results from the study have been promising. Both the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Origanum vulgare have demonstrated antibacterial activity, suggesting that the plant may have potent natural compounds capable of addressing bacterial infections. This is significant because, unlike synthetic antibiotics, natural remedies like oregano may offer a reduced risk of fostering further resistance. In other words, the use of oregano as a treatment may not contribute to the cycle of resistance that has become such a challenging issue with pharmaceutical antibiotics.
The importance of these findings cannot be overstated. If Origanum vulgare can be proven effective as an alternative to traditional antibiotics, it could revolutionise the way we treat infections that have become resistant to current drug therapies. Additionally, natural treatments often come with fewer side effects than their synthetic counterparts, which could make oregano-based therapies more appealing to patients seeking holistic or complementary medicine options.
Adewusi O. Michael is a Pharmacist and researcher.