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Plant Extracts as Potential Treatment for Lyme

August 9, 2024

International Journal of Molecular Sciences (6.28.2024) published the article, “Plantago major and Plantago lanceolata Exhibit Antioxidant and Borrelia burgdorferi Inhibiting Activities.” The article investigates the potential of Plantago major and Plantago lanceolata extracts from plants as treatments for Lyme disease, caused by Borrelia burgdorferi. The study is driven by the need for alternative therapies due to issues with current antibiotic treatments, such as antibiotic resistance and persistent symptoms.

Researchers analyzed hydroalcoholic extracts from both plants for their polyphenolic, flavonoid, and iridoid contents, as well as their antioxidant capacities. They identified key non-volatile compounds like plantamajoside and acteoside which are known for their antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities; and volatile compounds such as β-caryophyllene and D-limonene which are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. All six Plantago samples demonstrated significant antioxidant properties and showed effectiveness in inhibiting B. burgdorferi growth, with the most effective extracts reducing bacterial viability down to 15% and biofilm formation by 30%.

These findings suggest that P. major and P. lanceolata could be promising sources for developing new antibacterial therapies against B. burgdorferi, particularly in areas affected by Lyme disease and antibiotic-resistant strains of B. burgdorferi. The simultaneous reduction in bacterial viability and biofilm formation points to their potential effectiveness through multiple mechanisms. Further studies are needed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms behind these effects and to develop practical therapeutic strategies based on these plant extracts.

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Read the International Journal of Molecular Sciences Article and see the Map here.