A commonly used ingredient in Korean skincare products has revealed a surprising and potent capability. Researchers have identified that madecassic acid, a compound extracted from the herb Centella asiatica, possesses the ability to halt the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This includes formidable strains of E. coli. The compound achieves this by targeting a specific protein found in bacteria but absent in humans, thereby disrupting the microbes’ survival mechanisms. This breakthrough positions madecassic acid as a potential new frontier in the development of antibiotics.
Scientists Discover Skincare Compound That Kills Drug-Resistant Bacteria
By Rupert Blackwood
Investigative journalist based in Sheffield, focusing on technology's impact on society. Rupert specializes in cybercrime's effect on communities, from online fraud targeting elderly residents to cryptocurrency scams. His reporting examines social media manipulation, digital surveillance, and how criminal networks operate in cyberspace. With expertise in computer systems, he connects technical complexity with real-world consequences for ordinary people