Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Flavonoids, a diverse group of plant polyphenols found in many fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants, have attracted scientific interest as potential alternatives or adjuncts to antibiotics. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that various flavonoids (such as quercetin, catechins, and apigenin) possess antimicrobial properties against a wide range of bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains. The mechanisms proposed include disruption of bacterial cell walls, inhibition of nucleic acid synthesis, interference with energy metabolism, and inhibition of bacterial virulence factors or quorum sensing. Some flavonoids also show synergistic effects when combined with antibiotics, potentially restoring antibiotic activity against resistant bacteria. However, most of the evidence comes from in vitro (test tube) studies or animal models. There are very few well-designed human clinical trials evaluating flavonoid mixtures specifically as alternatives to antibiotics in clinical infections. While the traditional use of flavonoid-rich plants in folk medicine for infections is common, the direct use of isolated flavonoid mixtures as antibiotic alternatives is primarily a product of modern scientific investigation rather than historical practice. Overall, while the mechanistic and preclinical evidence is promising, clinical evidence remains limited, and therefore the scientific support is moderate but not strong (rated 2/5).

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