Antifungal Properties of Bixa orellana Essential Oil Against Candida albicans
Author Information
Author(s): Berrú María Belén Cruz, García María Coraima Mora, Re Sandra Luisa Soria, Barreto Jannys Lizeth Rivera, Sánchez Luis Ramón Bravo, Radice Matteo, Manfredini Stefano, Abreu-Naranjo Reinier
Primary Institution: Universidad Estatal Amazónica, Ecuador
Hypothesis
The essential oil from Bixa orellana leaves has antifungal properties against Candida albicans.
Conclusion
Bixa orellana essential oil exhibits moderate antifungal activity against Candida albicans, achieving 48% of the inhibition observed with nystatin.
Supporting Evidence
- The essential oil showed moderate antifungal activity against C. albicans, producing an inhibition halo of 13 mm in diameter.
- The presence of sesquiterpenes, such as β-caryophyllene, likely contributes to the antifungal effects.
- B. orellana essential oil is a promising source of natural antifungal compounds.
Takeaway
This study shows that a natural oil from a plant called Bixa orellana can help fight a type of fungus that causes infections.
Methodology
The essential oil was extracted from Bixa orellana leaves using steam distillation, and its antifungal activity was evaluated using the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method.
Limitations
Further research is needed to evaluate its efficacy against a wider range of pathogenic fungi and its safety in vivo.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website