Antimicrobial agents have been the target of numerous research studies for a
long period of history and they still attract great research interest namely in what
regards to the discovery of newer molecules or the search for newer sources of natural
antimicrobials. Antimicrobial agents include drugs, supplements, and ointments which
particularly act on bacteria, fungi, comprising molds and yeasts, viruses as well as
parasites. Phytochemicals, essential oils, antimicrobial peptides, metal oxides like
silver and gold, namely those found as nanoparticles, are being used to treat microbial
infections. Antimicrobial pesticides, some of which are isolated from the bacteria
themselves, are being studied to help eradicate pathogens in the clinic as well as being
used by agricultural companies. There are also various food derivatives that are used as
antimicrobial agents. In this chapter, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and
antiparasitic antimicrobial agents, which include natural and synthesized molecules
used as food additives, are addressed. An outlook of recent advances in drugs and other
procedures of treating microbial infections is also given. This chapter also focuses on
antimicrobial essential oils and antimicrobial pesticides with a closer look at the effects
of heat and radiation as antimicrobial therapies.
Keywords: Antimicrobial Peptides, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antiviral, Food,
Physical agents.
