In vitro antifungal effect of cinnamon extract on candida species

Abstract

Introduction: Cinnamon zeylanicum is used for various medical purposes. The aim of this study was to compare the antifungal efficacy of cinnamon and amphotericin B against Candida species in vitro. Material & Methods: Candida albicans (C. albicans) and Candida krusei (C. Krusei) were obtained from the Iranian Industrial and Scientific Research Center. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of cinnamon extract was determined and compared with that of amphotericin B. Results: The results of this study showed that Amphotericin B, ethanolic  and aqueous extract of cinnamon inhibited the growth of C. albicans and C. Krusei with different MICs. Conclusion: Ethanolic extract of cinnamon has inhibitory effects on Candida species comparable to that of amphotericin B. So, it can be used as a herbal alternative.

Keywords

• Amphotericin B
• Candida albicans
• Cinnamon