Harnessing the power of natural products against bacterial urinary tract infections: A perspective review for cultivating solutions

Abstract

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a prevalent and recurrent bacterial infection affecting millions of people across the world, often necessitating antibiotic treatment. However, the rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains, commonly known as "superbugs," has complicated the treatment process. This perspective review summarized the mechanisms of herbal or natural therapeutics intervention in UTI from the perspective of UTI bacterial pathogenesis. Initially, the review explores the mechanism of UTI development, identifying the types of UTI-causing bacteria, the complexity of UTI infection, and the human host's immune system against UTI. Then, this review synthesizes the active compounds of natural therapeutics for UTI, exploring their active compounds, efficacy, and mechanisms of action. After that, we summarized the emerging research on herbal compound interventions in UTI and analyzed the literature in this regard, including clinical applications, suggestions for potential natural bioactive compound consumption with the aim of UTI complications, as well as the association between novel mechanisms of UTI remission with the potential for active natural compounds intervention. Finally, we noted key future recommendations for using natural therapeutics. In conclusion, this review sheds light on the potential role of herbal or natural compounds in UTI treatment, from proposed mechanisms to prospects, offering a promising alternative or complement to conventional therapies in relieving UTIs.