Antileashmanial activity of Artemisia sieberi essential oil against Leishmania infantum in vitro

Abstract

Background and aims: VL (Viseral Leishmaniosis) the second- most dreaded parasitic disease after malaria is currently endemic in 88 countries. Artemisia sieberi is native medicinal plants in Iran and their effects are scientifically proven to be effective on leishmaniasis. The aim of this study was to investigate antileishmanial effects of A.sieberi essential oil on Leishmania infantum in vitro. This is the first application of A. sieberi for treatment of L.infantum. Methods: Promastigotes of L. infantum were treated by A. sieberi in 1, 5, 10, 15, 20 μg/ml concentration. MTT test ([3-(4, 5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2, 5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide] was done in 48h after treatment to determine the effect on promastigote viability. The data were analyzed by SPSS, and using one-way ANOVA and Mann Whitney tests. Results: Fewer than 15 μg /ml concentrations of A. sieberi essential oil were no appreciable effect on the parasite. A dose of 15, 20 μg/ml showed growth inhibitory on L. infantum in 24h/48h compared to control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: The A. sieberi essential oil had antileishmanial effects against L.infantum in vitro. Therefore, they might be a reliable source for preparation of new drugs. More in vivo investigations are required to clarify details of effects of A.sieberi on leishmania spp and analysis of its natural components.

Keywords

• leishmania infantum
• artemisia
• promastigote
• in vitro technique