In vitro activity of essential oils against Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from infected hip implants.

Introduction: Essential oils have been used since ancient times and are known for their anti-inflammatory, anti-depressive, antiseptic, antifungal and antimicrobial properties. Methodology: in this study the antimicrobial activity of two essential oils from Melaleuca alternifolia and Thymus vulgaris-red thyme geraniol was tested against 16 multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa strains from infected hip implants as well as the "in vitro" cytotoxic activity on normal human Wong-Kilbourne derivative (WKD) cells. Results: Thymus vulgaris-red thyme geraniol showed lower antimicrobial activity when compared to Melaleuca alternifolia. All tested oils were cytotoxic at concentrations lower than 0.12%. Conclusion: Increase in drug resistance and lack of new antibiotics may encourage the development of natural treatments together with higher concern on environmental issues and natural lifestyle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]