Anti-Candida Activity of Pomegranate Peel Extract in Comparison with Curcumin Extract and their Synergism with Fluconazole and Nystatin

Abstract

Background: Oropharyngeal candidiasis is an important sign that may reflect a serious\nsystemic disease, especially in immunocompromised patients who face the intolerable\nside effects of the available antifungal drugs. This necessitates the development of safe\nand effective natural components. Objectives: to evaluate the in vitro activities of both\npomegranate peel and curcumin extracts and to compare them with nystatin and\nfluconazole drugs against Candida species. As far as we know, this is the first study\ncomparing between the antifungal potency of both extracts. Methodology: Different\nCandida species were isolated from patients with oropharyngeal candidiasis. The\nantifungal activities of methanolic extracts of pomegranate peel and curcumin were\ntested by disc diffusion method. Both extracts were added to each of nystatin and\nfluconazole discs to measure their synergistic effects. Results: Highly significant\nsynergism was detected between both extracts and each of antifungal drugs. Curcumin\nextract was more potent than pomegranate extract. Conclusion: When used in\ncombination with nystatin and fluconazole, curcumin and pomegranate peel extracts are promising and effective anti-Candida agents.