Evaluation of the antifungal powers of five plant species of the genus Terminalia on strains responsible for candidiasis

Abstract

Background: Candidiasis is a fungal disease caused by Candida albicans, a yeast that preferentially affects mucous membranes. These diseases are more and more recurrent because of the generalized decline in immunity and the appearance of resistance to classical antifungal drugs. Therefore, fighting against therapeutic failures becomes necessary. The objective of this study is to contribute to the fight against candidiasis through the research of new antifungal molecules. To do so, the hydroalcoholic extracts of Terminalia catappa, Terminalia glaucescens, Terminalia ivorensis, Terminalia mantaly and Terminalia superba, five plant species used in traditional medicine against dermatoses, were tested on the in vitro growth of resistant strains of Candida albicans. In addition, the polyphenol composition of these plants was carried out in order to evaluate their protective powers.
 Methods: The antifungal tests were performed by the solid-state dilution method. While the determination of polyphenols was performed by the photometric method.
 Results: The results showed an inhibition of the growth of germs by four plants except Terminalia catappa. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) obtained are as follows: MIC (T. ivorensis) =0.25 mg/mL; MIC (T. glaucescens) =0.50 mg/mL; MIC (T. superba) = 4 mg/ML; MIC (T. mantaly) = 2 mg/mL.
 Conclusion: This study indicates that T. ivorensis is the most active and has the highest content of phenolic compounds. This plant could be a source of effective molecules in the treatment of candidiasis.
 Keywords: Candida albicans, candidiasis, Terminalia, antifungal, polyphenol,