Plant Derived Products to Combat Bacterial, Fungal and Parasitic Pathogens

In recent years, many conventional drugs have showed a lack of
effectiveness, causing relevant side effects. The large use of
antibiotics in animals has contributed to the spreading of
antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains. Antibiotics have largely been
used for decades not only to treat bacterial diseases in companion and
large animals, but also for auxinic purpose in farm animals. In this
way antibiotic-resistance has become an increasingly severe threat in
veterinary medicine, with a relevant impact on human health too.

Several fungal pathogens, in particular opportunistic species, show
decreased sensitivity to antimycotic drugs, probably caused by the
extensive use of fungicidal compounds in farming. Endo and
ectoparasites also show different degrees of drug resistance, and
treatments are frequently toxic. Furthermore, other negative aspects
related to the use of antibiotics, antimycotic and antiparasitic
conventional drugs are the environmental contamination, as well as the
presence of residues in food of animal origin (meat and poultry, milk
and dairy products, eggs, fish and seafood, honey).

In view of this situation, the use of natural alternatives for
managing both pets and farm animals are welcome. Plant derived
products have been suggested as promising compounds against bacterial,
fungal and parasitic pathogens. Their main applications are focused on
environmental hygiene, food preservation and therapeutic treatments.

In this Research Topic we would like to collect and disseminate some
of the most significant and recent research on complementary and
alternative approaches to the biological activity of plant-derived
products, their application in veterinary sciences are particularly
appreciated. Interdisciplinary perspectives including microbiology,
parasitology and pharmacology are also welcomed.