The present invention relates to an antibacterial agent and a hydrolysate made of at least one extract that has been produced by extraction using ethanol/water from dried plant material of: a) at least one of the plants selected from the group consisting of: Verbena officinalis L., Sambucus nigra L., Primula veris L., Primula elatior (L.) Hill, and Gentiana lutea L.; and a mixture thereof; or b) a mixture of: Verbena officinalis L., Sambucus nigra L., Primula veris L., Gentiana lutea L., and Rumicis herba; and subsequent removal of the ethanol/water extraction agent, wherein the hydrolysate can be obtained from the extract via hydrolytic treatment using a mineral acid. The hydrolyzates according to the invention show a pronounced antibacterial effect against germs relevant to the skin, ears, nose, and throat and respiratory systems.