Antifungal effects of the extract of the Withania somnifera on Candida albicans

Abstract

Background and aims: Withania somnifera (W. somnifera), commonly known as Ashwagandha, is an important medicinal plant that has been used in Ayurvedic and indigenous medicine for over 3,000 years. Candidiasis is one of the most common opportunistic fungal diseases in humans. In fact, the most important fungal disease in women is vaginal candidiasis. This study aimed to investigate the antifungal effects of the extracts of the W. somnifera on Candida albicans (C. albicans). Methods: In this experimental research, 9 vaginal samples were collected using the sterile swap and Falcon tube by the gynecological specialists. The extracts of the shallot and artichoke were prepared using a rotary device. The inhibitory concentration against C. albicans was determined using incubation in media. Results: The results of this study suggested that the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against C. albicans, which is equivalent 50 ppm to 250 ppm has the highest concentration of inhibitor. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the antifungal activity of wind cheese against C. albicans is good, so it can be used as a drug to treat infections caused by C. albicans.

Keywords

• extract plant
• withania somnifera
• candida albicans
• antifungal effects