Wildflower Holds Promise in Fight Against Drug-Resistant Infections
Tormentil, a yellow wildflower common in heath and boglands across Europe, including Ireland and the UK, exhibits significant potential in combating one of the world’s most dangerous pathogens: Acinetobacter baumannii. Recent research suggests this traditionally used plant could offer a new strategy in the face of growing antibiotic resistance.
What is Acinetobacter baumannii?
Acinetobacter baumannii is a multidrug-resistant bacterium identified by the World Health Organization as a “top priority pathogen.”1 It is a common cause of hospital-acquired infections, including wound, respiratory, and urinary tract infections, particularly affecting individuals with weakened immune systems. The bacterium is responsible for approximately 50,000 deaths globally each year.2 Its resistance to most antibiotics makes treatment extremely challenging, often relying on colistin as a last-resort option.
How Does Tormentil Operate?
Researchers from the University of Southampton, the NatPro Centre in Trinity College Dublin, and Brunel University of London investigated 70 bogland plants for antimicrobial activity.2 They discovered that Tormentil (Potentilla erecta) effectively inhibits the growth of A. Baumannii. Further analysis identified two key bioactive compounds – agrimoniin and ellagic acid – responsible for this effect.3
These compounds disrupt the bacterium’s iron homeostasis, essentially starving it of a crucial nutrient.3 When iron is reintroduced, the antimicrobial activity is reversed, confirming iron disruption as the mechanism of action. Importantly, the antimicrobial compounds are present in all parts of the plant – roots, flowers, and leaves.3
Tormentil and Colistin: A Synergistic Effect
Beyond its direct antimicrobial properties, Tormentil demonstrates the potential to enhance the effectiveness of colistin, a critical last-line antibiotic.3 By potentiating colistin’s activity, Tormentil could help prolong the lifespan of this vital antibiotic and improve treatment outcomes.
A Return to Traditional Medicine
Tormentil has a long history of utilize in traditional medicine, dating back to at least the 1850s.2 Its roots were historically boiled in milk to treat colic in children, and used to address toothache, wounds, and stomach issues. The plant’s name itself reflects its traditional use in alleviating pain – derived from the “torment” it was believed to cure.
“This study underscores the value of revisiting plants long rooted in traditional knowledge and folklore and shows us that nature still has much to teach us,” said project co-lead John J. Walsh, NatPro Associate Academic Director and Associate Professor of Pharmacognosy at Trinity College Dublin.2
Future Directions
The discovery of Tormentil’s antimicrobial properties represents a promising step in the fight against antibiotic resistance. Researchers are now focused on translating these findings into potential new medications.2 Further investigation is needed to fully understand the plant’s potential and develop effective therapies based on its bioactive compounds.
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