Antimicrobial compounds are substances that kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. These compounds can be naturally occurring, like those found in certain plants, or synthetically produced in laboratories. They are essential in medicine for treating infections and are also used in various industries, such as food preservation and agriculture. Common examples of antimicrobial compounds include antibiotics, which target bacterial infections, and antifungals, which combat fungal infections. The effectiveness of these compounds can vary, and the emergence of antimicrobial resistance poses a significant challenge in healthcare, making the development of new antimicrobial agents crucial.