Reviewing the Potential of Natural Antimicrobials for Salmonella spp. Gastrointestinal Infections: In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluations

Gastrointestinal infections caused by some Salmonella species pose a significant public health challenge. These bacteria can be transmitted through contaminated food and drinks, resulting in health complications. The Salmonella genus is responsible for approximately 16 million cases of gastrointestinal diseases worldwide each year. Although antibiotics are the primary treatment for these infections, their inappropriate use has led to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This represents a threat to the control of these pathogens, emphasizing the importance of exploring alternatives to manage and mitigate this issue. Plant extracts have been regarded as a potential alternative for treating salmonellosis, like Heteromorpha arborescens, Hypericum roeperianum, and Cremaspora triflora in vitro, and Urtica urens in vivo, showing their antimicrobial effectiveness. Further research is needed to understand their mechanisms of action, safety for epithelial tissues, and effective dosages in relation to cytotoxicity. These investigations are a current challenge in developing alternatives for salmonellosis treatment. Therefore, this review aims to discuss the documented uses of plant extracts to fight Salmonella infections.