Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 20, 2025
A Soluble Tetrazolium-Based Reduction Assay to Evaluate the Effect of Antibodies on Candida tropicalis Biofilms
Published on: September 16, 2022
Antifungal Properties of Zataria multiflora on Candida species: A Systematic Review
Ali Malekzadeh Shafaroudi1, Nadia Elyassi Gorji1, Pegah Nasiri1
1Dentistry Student, Student Research Committee, Faculty of Dentistry, 92948Mazandaran University of Medical sciences, Sari, Iran.
Background And Purpose:
Candida infections have increased significantly in the antimicrobial resistance era, and synthetic antifungal drugs have limitations. The present work aimed to review the antifungal properties of Zataria multiflora (Z. multiflora) as an herbal remedy.
Method:
PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, SID, Civilica, and Magiran databases were searched for the antifungal activity on in vitro, in vivo, dental biofilm, and clinical studies of Z. multiflora on Candida species.
Results:
Overall, 33 articles evaluated the effect of Z. multiflora on Candida species and classified them into four groups, as follows in vitro (23), dental biofilm (6), in vivo (2), and clinical studies (3). All studies considered Z. multiflora effective in reducing or even inhibiting the growth of Candida species. NoMFC significant differences were seen in the effect of Z. multiflora on susceptible Candida compared to the resistant groups of Candida in the studies. It was also influential in inhibiting C. parapsilosis, C. glabrata, C. krusei, C. kefyer, and C. zeylanoides.
Conclusion:
Considering the side effects and resistance of current antifungal drugs as well as the benefits of using herbal medicines, such as lower cost, less likely to develop drug resistance, the absence of side effects, and toxicity compared with chemical ones, it is possible as a powerful alternative to replace or combine with the current antifungal for Candida infection therapy along with other therapies.
Insights
Zataria multiflora demonstrates significant antifungal properties against Candida species, offering a promising herbal alternative to conventional antifungals. Its effectiveness extends to resistant strains, suggesting a valuable role in managing Candida infections.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Mycology
- Natural Products
Background:
- Rising Candida infections and antimicrobial resistance necessitate novel therapeutic strategies.
- Conventional antifungal drugs present limitations, including side effects and emerging resistance.
- Zataria multiflora emerges as a potential herbal remedy for fungal infections.
Approach:
- A comprehensive literature review was conducted across multiple scientific databases.
- Studies evaluated Zataria multiflora's antifungal activity against Candida species.
- Research encompassed in vitro, in vivo, dental biofilm, and clinical investigations.
Key Points:
- 33 articles confirmed Zataria multiflora's efficacy in inhibiting or reducing Candida growth.
- The herb showed effectiveness against various Candida species, including C. parapsilosis, C. glabrata, and C. krusei.
- No significant difference was observed between Zataria multiflora's effect on susceptible and resistant Candida strains.
Conclusions:
- Zataria multiflora presents a cost-effective and less toxic alternative to synthetic antifungals.
- Its herbal properties suggest potential for replacing or complementing current antifungal therapies.
- Further integration of Zataria multiflora in Candida infection management is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Fungal Group Zygomycota
02:22Introduction to Plant Diversity