Evaluation of antimycotic activity of grapefruit leaf extract on Candida species - An in vitro study

Introduction and Aim: Candidiasis is one of the most common pathological conditions affecting the oral mucosa. Synthetic antifungals are being eliminated from the market due to the burden of environmental residues and carcinogenesis. Bioactive phytochemicals such as alkaloids, terpenoids, polyacetylenes, unsaturated isobutylamides, and phenolics are considered safer than synthetic products. The medical field is continuously exploring plant products against the increasing number of antibiotic-resistant organisms. Leaves of grapefruits were selected for the study because citrus species are well known for their antibacterial and antifungal properties. Materials and Methods: Volatile oils extracted from grapefruit leaves by hydro distillation were tested for antifungal activity by agar diffusion method against various ATCC strains of Candida. MIC/MFC and ZOI were recorded, and a cytotoxicity test was carried out on human gingival fibroblasts. Results: Leaf extract not only produced a larger zone of inhibition against test pathogens but was also less cytotoxic than Amphotericin B and Fluconazole. Conclusion: Grapefruit leaf volatile oil extract had an antifungal effect on selected strains of candida and was less toxic than Amphotericin B and Fluconazole to the human gingival fibroblasts in vitro.