Abstract
The global rise of diseases due to many microorganisms including multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria which poses a significant threat to public health, with nosocomial infections often linked with these resilient pathogens. Moreover, MDR bacteria are increasingly causing illnesses within the community, leading to heightened rates of morbidity, mortality, healthcare expenditure, and antibiotic consumption. Across cultures worldwide, the utilization of medicinal plants for health benefits dates back to ancient times, showcasing humanity’s profound understanding of their therapeutic properties through observation and experimentation. Hydrilla verticillata, a member of the Hydrocharitaceae family, possesses noteworthy nutraceutical and pharmacological attributes, yet many other species within this family have remained underexplored for decades. Thus, there is a pressing need to comprehensively explore the bioactive compounds present in these plants and their diverse applications across various fields. Phytomedicines, derived from medicinal plants, represent a primary approach for treating various ailments, harnessing a plethora of secondary metabolites and bioactive substances for therapeutic purposes. Many ethnomedicinal plant products offer a safe, cost-effective alternative with minimal side effects, prompting a shift in focus within the pharmaceutical industry towards herbal medications. Furthermore, some tribal communities have long recognized the medicinal potential of aquatic macrophytes, further expanding the scope of natural sources for medicine.
Keywords: Hydrilla, Hydrocharitaceae, Nanoparticle, Pharmaceuticals, Phytol.