Application of Medicinal Plants as a Source for Therapeutic Agents Against Streptococcus pyogenes Infections

Background: Streptococcus pyogenes, a major human pathogen, causes a wide variety of invasive systemic infections such as acute pharyngitis, skin and soft-tissue infections, especially necrotizing fasciitis. Objective: This review focuses on the properties of pathogenicity of S. pyogenes and outlines ways to combat infection caused by these bacteria through alternative plant-based medicine. Conclusion: This Gram positive bacterium has an ability to form mature biofilm and this sessile life style plays an important role in S. pyogenes pathogenicity. The virulence of these bacteria is further strengthened by its ability to communicate within the micro-colonies through quorum sensing. Most treatments are now aimed at either elimination of this bacterium or suppression of its virulence. The emergence of antibiotic resistance among S. pyogenes and treatment failure has become an added concern globally. One of its virulence properties, biofilm formation, has made it more resistant to antibiotic therapy. This has vitalized the necessity for searching alternative therapies for its treatment. The growing research in herbal medicines has led to the discovery of various phytochemicals to limit the virulence of S. pyogenes.