Vitex Genus as a Source of Antimicrobial Agents

Area of Science:

• Ethnobotany
• Pharmacology
• Natural Products Chemistry

Background:

• The Lamiaceae family's largest genus, Vitex, is widely used in traditional medicine.
• Vitex species are traditionally employed for ailments potentially linked to infectious diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the potential of Vitex plants as sources of antimicrobial agents.
• To consolidate evidence on the antimicrobial properties of Vitex species and their derived compounds.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review following PRISMA methodology.
• Screening of 2610 publications, selecting 141 relevant articles for data analysis.

Main Results:

• Vitex species demonstrated in vitro antimicrobial activity against key pathogens including Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.
• Vitex agnus-castus and Vitex negundo were extensively studied, showing activity against bacteria, fungi (Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans), viruses (HIV-1), and parasites (Plasmodium falciparum).
• Identified compounds like negundoside exhibited potent antimicrobial effects, notably against Staphylococcus aureus (MIC 12.5 µg/mL).

Conclusions:

• Vitex species represent a valuable resource for novel natural antimicrobial agents.
• Further experimental investigations are necessary to fully elucidate the therapeutic potential of Vitex-derived antimicrobials.